In a groundbreaking discovery, scientists have successfully grown a tree from a 1,000-year-old seed unearthed during an archaeological dig in the Judean Desert. The ancient seed, found in a cave in the lower Wadi el-Makkuk region near Jerusalem in the 1980s, has now sprouted into a nearly 10-foot-tall tree, sparking intrigue among botanists and historians alike.
The project, led by Dr. Sarah Sallon, founder of the Louis L. Borick Natural Medicine Research Center at Hadassah University Medical Center, began more than a decade ago when the team planted the mysterious seed. Dr. Elaine Solowey, an expert in sustainable agriculture, used a specialized method involving hormones and fertilizer to nurture the ancient seed into life.
Nicknamed “Sheba,” the tree is believed to belong to the Commiphora genus, a group of about 200 species native to Africa, Madagascar, and the Arabian Peninsula. Despite this identification, DNA sequencing revealed that Sheba is an extinct taxon with no known matches in modern databases, making it an entirely unique specimen.
The researchers speculate that this ancient tree could be linked to the medicinal “tsori” plant mentioned in biblical texts. Dr. Sallon believes that the tree may have been the source of a healing balm described in the Bible, known as the "Balm of Gilead." Historical records suggest that this fragrant resin, highly prized in ancient times, was harvested from trees cultivated in the region.
Though the tree has not yet produced flowers or fruit, preventing a definitive identification, a phytochemical analysis revealed several medicinal compounds, including guggulterols, which have known cancer-fighting properties. The tree lacks the aromatic qualities of myrrh or Judean Balsam, but its potential medicinal value is exciting scientists.
Dr. Louise Colville, a senior research leader at Royal Botanic Gardens in London, noted the remarkable nature of the find. “It’s astonishing that a single ancient seed could survive for over 1,000 years and germinate,” she said. The project offers hope for the long-term preservation of seeds and the possibility of recovering lost plant species.
With the tree now more than 14 years old, Sallon and her team continue to study Sheba, unlocking its secrets and exploring its potential as a source of healing compounds.