The oil was known in ancient times and was part of the Ayurvedic herbal tradition of india. lt was obtained as a luxury in ancient Egypt, the Near East, and Rome , where it was the main ingredient of the perfume nardinum. Nard is mentioned a number of times in the Old Testament .

lt was used as one of the Eleven Herbs for the Incense in the Holy Temple in Jerusalem . And it is mentioned in the biblical love poem, the Song of Solomon ( 1:12&4:13) . In the New Testament ( john 12:1-10) : six days before the Passover Jesus arrives in Bethany . In Bethany, Mary, sister of Lazarus uses a pound of pure nard to anoint Jesus's feet. Preparing him for his death , has he said to the criticizers of the event.