Herbs and fruit
- What does “in the season thereof” mean?
- Lora Beth Larson mentions in the April 1996 Ensign that this phrase refers to “when they are at their peak nutritionally and in flavor.”
- Why doesn’t the Word of Wisdom mention vegetables?
- The Oxford English Dictionary (1961) states that an archaic usages of the word “fruit” is “vegetable products in general which are fit to be used by men and animals.”
- Are all herbs safe to use?
- In verse 10, the Lord says that he has only ordained wholesome herbs for our use.
- Does the word “herbs” only refer to the eating of herbs? Should herbs be used to treat ailments?
- Compare verse 12 where the Lord states that animal flesh is for “the use of man” while verse 10 states that all wholesome herbs are for “the constitution, nature, and use of man.”
Many studies have been done on the health benefits of some herbs. Care should be taken when using such herbs. As with allopathic medicine, it is quite easy to harm oneself when using excessive quantities, incorrectly combining herbs, or using herbs without knowing their properties. It is recommended that herbs, along with allopathic remedies, be used with skill, research and knowledge.
