"Jurassic Park" with its genetically modified dinosaurs running wild is pure science fiction, but that doesn't mean scientists aren't interested in reviving the past in some other form, CNN notes.
They Planted a 1,000-Year-Old Seed - The Bible in the Background
Dr. Sarah Sallon, founder of the Louis L. Borick Natural Medicine Research Center in Jerusalem, led a research team that planted the seed years ago. To the researchers' surprise, a small sprout emerged just five weeks later, from which they were able to determine the seed’s age: it was 1,000 years old. The tree adapted remarkably well and now stands at three meters tall, although it has never flowered or borne fruit.
Using DNA sequencing, scientists identified the mysterious tree as part of the Commiphora genus (balsam tree), but its exact species remains unknown and is likely extinct. The research team believes it may be linked to a medicinal plant mentioned in the Bible. Dr. Sarah Sallon suggested that the tree could be the source of the biblical "tsori," a healing plant balm associated with the historical region of Gilead, north of the Dead Sea. However, the study notes that since the tree has not flowered or produced fruit, the species cannot be identified with complete certainty.
"It's Not Judean Balsam, But a Close Relative"
Dr. Sallon recalls that the seed was planted in 2010. Why was there such a long wait before publishing the research results? "Because we wanted to make sure it wasn’t Judean balsam. And how would we definitively determine that? By its scent," she said. However, the tree, which is related to the myrrh tree, never produced any scent. About three years ago, when the plant was more mature, the team conducted a phytochemical analysis of the resin, leaves, and branches to check for aromatic compounds. "But there were none," added the head of the research team.
However, the scientists did detect certain compounds known for their medicinal properties, including "guggul" sterols, which have potential anticancer effects. "Considering all these factors, it’s not Judean balsam, but rather a close relative, one of the non-aromatic Commiphora balms, which is a treasure trove of medicinal compounds," concluded Dr. Sarah Sallon.
