Where did Thieves Oil come from?

I heard about Thieves Oil for the first time in a Herbology class about 10 years ago.  It has gained popularity since then.  But what I found really interesting was the story behind it.  Although it would be almost impossible to track down the true version, here's a run down of the most popular version of the story.

All versions of the story seem to center around one event, the Bubonic Plague. It is said that, during that time, four thieves went from house to house to rob those who had succumbed to the illness. After the thieves were captured and tried for their acts of robbery, a judge offered leniency if they would share how they were able to be around those afflicted long and often enough to rob them but not be affected by the illness. It’s interesting to note here that, during this time of the plague striking Europe, physicians were seen wearing long black robes, wide brimmed hats, and masks that appeared to have a beak. The reason for doing this is that the masks were said to have contained a combination of herbs, spices, and essential oils that the physicians would breathe in order to keep themselves safe from those afflicted with the illness. Their long black robes were also said to be doused in a similar fragrant concoction and current research continues to build upon this theory.

While I am sure what we have today isn't the exact replica of what was used then, it is pretty effective.  My spin on it is called BURGLAR'S BLEND.  Tricky, I know.  It is a powerful blend of clove, lemon, cinnamon, eucalyptus and rosemary.  I love diffusing it not only because I feel like I'm fighting off evil, but also because it's a nice spicy and warm aroma filling my house.  Try it yourself this season!