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Mandrake
A relative of the nightshade, the stemless mandrake has purple flowers
growing from the center of the plant. The flowers are covered in hairs. The
large wrinkled leaves of the plant grow in a rose formation and are dark
green. Its foot-long leaves do not compare to its large 3-foot (1-m) long
root. This perennial herb blooms in the winter. Long believed to make the
barren fertile, and even called the love apple, it is no surprise that the
two biblical mentions of the mandrake are found in the story of Rachel and
Leah (Gen. 30) and in Song of Solomon (7:13). Recent studies have found
that this narcotic indeed contains aphrodisiacs and drugs to help
fertility, but its sedative content is far greater and counteracts those
effects. |
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Henna
Henna (kopher), although displayed with poetic device in Song of Solomon
1:14 as growing in a vineyard, was usually grown amidst other plants in a
garden. This useful plant was cultivated in ancient times. Its crushed
leaves mixed with water make a dye. This can be used on clothing and in
many cultures is used cosmetically on the body, nails, and hair. Henna’s
fragrant flowers make it an ideal ingredient in perfume. The blooms, which
appear in spring, grow in clusters of white. This shrub is similar to a
tree growing 13 feet (4 m) in height with many branches. The sphere-shaped
fruit, which contains many seeds, open when fully ripe. This tree can no
longer be found in En-Gedi where Song of Solomon speaks of it growing
(1:14). |
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Madder
Cultivated for its useful root from which a red die can be made, this
perennial is used for staining clothes and leather. According to Pliny’s
Natural History, this plant was also known to cure jaundice. Its leaves
form a whorl pattern around its long stems. In the right seasons, clusters
of tiny yellow-green flowers or red berries can be observed on the plant.
Puah, a biblical name, is the Hebrew word for the dyer’s madder (Gen 46:13;
Judg 10:1; 1 Chr 7:1). |
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Rockrose
Predominately found in the Mediterranean area, this plant can grow to 30
inches (70 cm). Rockrose has hairy leaves, and large, pink flowers that
appear in the spring. Ladanum is a substance collected from the leaves and
branches of this plant is a bitter, sticky juice. It can be harvested by
scraping a tool across it or by boiling the branches. When sold as a
medicine, it is dark brown and gummy. This product acts as a stimulant and
is helpful for stomach illnesses and congestion problems as it drains mucus
from the lungs. With its distinct aroma, its main use today is in perfume
and incense. The Hebrew word lot, often translated “myrrh,” more likely
refers to “ladanum” (Gen 37:25; 43:11). |
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