Four Thieves

The Historic Folklore of This Famous Remedy

According to the long-told historic tale…. The use of thieves oil dates back to the year 1413, during the Bubonic Plague. The Plague spread like wildfire amongst the citizens, and the doctors alike. It seemed impossible to be in the vicinity without contracting it, and at the time, the sickness really did mean ultimate demise.

During this time, however, four thieves were captured and charged for stealing from the sick and dying. The thieves never contracted the plague, despite the close contact with the Black-Death victims.

At this time, the crime these 4 men committed was punishable by burning alive. The judge was so intrigued by how these men had stayed immune to this terrible disease, that he told them if they shared their secret, he would spare them of this punishment.

The Thieves told the judge their secret: they were perfume & spice merchants, and they had an essential oil recipe that when applied to their hands, ears, temples, feet & a mask over their mouths, kept them safe from infection. The judge stayed true to his word. The men were not burned alive, but instead they were hanged for their crimes.