The thieves were spice traders and merchants who imported spices from India, including cinnamon and clove. When the Black Plague hit, all international shipping and trade were closed down. Unable to do business, these spice traders quickly ran out of money and had to find a way to support themselves. Since people in the communities were afraid to touch the dead bodies, they decided to loot the homes and bodies of the plague victims. They would take clothes, jewelry, pots, pans, or whatever they could find, then barter with them for food and money. Knowing the medicinal value of herbs they believed they would not get sick if they rubbed vinegar, oils, and certain spices all over their bodies. This allowed them to set up a very lucrative pawn business.
Until the King found out, that is. When the king heard about the story of the thieves, he wanted to know their secret recipe. He sent his Constables out to capture them. Four of the thieves were caught and brought before the king. The king gave them a choice to either share their secret formula of immunity or be burned at the stake. Given these choices, the thieves decided to share their secret formula with the king. The king immediately posted the thieves’ secret formula all over the town. Hence the story of the four thieves.
This story is often presented as an Urban Legend, however, an account of the Four Thieves story is recorded in the Royal English Archives.
Try Mountain Granny’s Virus Be GONE Essential Oil Blend, based off of the herbs these historical thieves used.
Until we meet again!
Granny