thieves: the legend

The popularity of Thieves® essential oil (EO) blend by Young Living has been on the rise the past few years as the use of EO becomes more mainstream and folks are looking for natural (non-toxic) ways to support their immunity.

But, before I extol the benefits of Thieves®, lets explore history for a moment…

For nearly 1,000 years, the Bubonic Plague decimated families, communities and nations across Asia and Europe. As late as the 1700s, it was still claiming the lives of up to half of the population.

Out of this backdrop emerges a tale of four thieves in France who cheated death and, in an effort to save themselves, helped millions.

The four robbers where caught and charged for stealing from victims of Black Death. Their ability to interact with the bodies of victims and live intrigued authorities and prompted the local magistrate to offer them leniency if they revealed their secret.

What they shared was a concoction of aromatics, including rosemary, clove and garlic, that they used to protect themselves from the plague.

Adding to the mystique of the story, images from this period reveal doctors dressed in wide-rimmed hats; long, dark robes; and masks with long beaks (see image via Wikipedia)…the eerie attire was doused-in essential oils while the bird-like mask held dried herbs, spices and essential oils.

According Young Living’s research, in 1722 Marseilles, people were actively using a garlic-vinegar preparation known as Four Thieves to help protect from an outbreak of the plague.

But, here, the story varies…

“Some say that the preparation originated with [the] four thieves who confessed that they used it with complete protection against the plague while they robbed the bodies of the dead. Others claim that a man named Richard Forhave developed and sold the preparation, and that the ‘medicine’ was originally referred to as Forthave’s…” and that with the passing of time, the surname was altered to Four Thieves.

Perhaps the truth lies somewhere in between the two tales.

As Young Living Founder Gary Young learned about oils and the legendary tale, he developed a “new” version of the blend that offers a more appealing aroma and flavor in conjunction with powerful immune system support…Thieves®.

Today, Thieves® EO is featured in the Vitality line (for consumption), as a standard EO blend to be diffused or applied topically (with a carrier oil if needed), as well as in a variety of oil-infused products that range from lozenges and dental floss to household cleaners and laundry detergent.

A powerhouse combination of Clove, Lemon, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus Radiata and Rosemary EO, Thieves® fills your space with a rich, spicy aroma. As always, I encourage you to hit the Google bar to explore the constituents of these oils and the magic of what each does!

One of the most popular EO products, it has cleaning power and an irresistible scent that can be used to:

• Refresh musty carpets – add 5 drops to a cup of baking soda; combine well and let sit overnight until the oil is absorbed before sprinkling over carpets and vacuuming thoroughly
  
• Create an environment of peace, security and warmth by diffusing 6-8 drops in distilled water
  
• Blend a custom aroma by adding Orange, Tangerine or Nutmeg for a twist
  
• Eliminate odors and thoroughly clean dishes by adding a few drops in your dishwasher or full sink/dishwater
  
• Make “Thieves tea” by adding a drop of Thieves Vitality to your favorite warm brew (try using a tip of toothpick inserted into oil and then swirled in mug to control strength)
  
• Boost immunity
  
• Deodorize your home (place 3-5 drops on the vacuum cleaner filter), gym bag or car (place 2-3 drops on a cotton ball or pompom and place in bag/area)
  

Caution: Thieves contains Lemon EO which means it may cause photosensitivity. Additionally, you may need to use with a carrier oil when applying to skin. Finally, store in a cool, dark place.

As always, please use only the highest quality organic, therapeutic-grade essential oils. Preferably, those that are sustainably harvested and tested throughout the distillation process. Click here to learn more about Young Living’s Seed to Seal promise.

To learn more about essential oils, as well a purchase quality, organic oils and products, please email [email protected], or visit www.BlossomWithOils.net or link through Services on www.NourishedPath.net.

Sources: Multiple, including Young Living’s website and blog.

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