Spiritual oils are essential oils minimally diluted with carrier oils for the purpose of applying on people or things during prayer, meditation or spell-casting. Often they have been blessed prior to preparation or use so that they are considered holy. Essential oils, the basis of spiritual oils, are strong, highly concentrated all-natural oils from herbs and flowers thought to retain the healing powers from their sources.
Religions ranging from paganism to Christianity link oil to divine favor or divine presence. The religious practice of anointing stems from combining the two meanings of the root word “anoint,” which means “to apply oil” and “to choose by divine intervention.” A drop of blessed or consecrated oil on an object or person is thought to set aside that thing for holy or supernatural purposes. Spiritual oils can also be used for evil and curses.
Burning, stinging, and irritation can arise from the application of essential oils to the skin, which is why they are heavily diluted when used for massage, perfumes, or other grooming purposes. Makers of spiritual oils, however, want the users of the oil and the people anointed to feel a distinct sting upon application. Many believe that sensation reflects the power and charisma of the Divine.
Consequently, spiritual oils have only small quantities of coconut oil or olive oil added for dilution. They might also contain healing crystals or gems, which are believed to raise a person’s vibrational energy or chakra. Only a few drops of the holy oil are used at a time. It is generally not ever used for casual or non-religious purposes, which would be considered sacrilege.
Religious ceremonies where vows are exchanged, incantations are made, or members of the clergy are ordained are the most common situations where spiritual oils are used. Individuals can also use these holy oils privately to bless a new house or a new baby. The oils are generally applied with the index finger and typically smeared on the recipient or object in the form of a religious symbol, like a cross. During that time, a meditation or spiritual verse is often spoken.
Aromatherapy stores, magic stores, and other religious shops sell these blessed oils, which come in different scents for different purposes, depending on the essential oil used. Oils for casting love spells and fertility blessings are among the most popular. Others purporting to bring luck, healing, and prosperity are also common.