One of the three gifts of the Magi on the Christmas night, the resin of
Myrrh was valued as much as gold in ancient times. It comes from a
delightful tree that is closely related to Frankincense and belongs to
the same family of Burseraceae. The tree is a small, multi-stemmed shrub
growing up to 4 meters high with small white flowers and aromatic
leaves. It grows naturally in Arabia, northeast Africa and the region
around the Red Sea, especially Somalia, Yemen and Ethiopia. The resin is
obtained in same way as Frankincense. While Frankincense was often used
as an incense in temples and religious ceremonies, Myrrh was used as an
embalming agent and perfume for burial of the dead. In fact, the use of
Myrrh goes back far further than the earliest written records.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine and Indian Ayurvedic Medicine, Myrrh was
highly valued as a healing ointment for wounds that are slow to heal. It
is a cellular regenerator. It stimulates the regeneration of skin cells,
improves circulation, maintains healthy skin and reputedly prevents
premature aging. It helps the skin look smoother and youthful. Myrrh is
one of the best essential oils for treating rough, cracked and chapped
skin.
Myrrh is also antiseptic and highly antibacterial. It stimulates the
production of infection-fighting leukocytes and has a direct
antimicrobial effect on its own. It is a gentle anti-inflammatory for
topical treatments of sore throats, gum diseases and mouth ulcers. Myrrh
is a common ingredient in many toothpaste and mouthwashes. It is often
added to fight the bacterial that cause tooth decay, relieve toothache
and prevent bad breath.
Myrrh has a very gentle calming effect on the nervous system. Recent
studies showed that the sesquiterpenes content in Myrrh essential oil is
able to ease pain by binding to the opioid receptors in the brain,
working in the same pathways as the opioids. This anaesthetic aspects,
together with its calming effect, make it a natural painkiller suitable
in the management of non-malignant chronic pain.
Beside its analgesic properties, Myrrh essential oil has a tonic effect
and stimulating actions on the stomach and the whole digestive tract. It
stimulates appetite, reduces stomach gas and acidity, and is an
effective remedy for diarrhea when gently massaged over the stomach and
abdomen.
The fragrance is bitter, as its name in Arabic. The essential oil has warm,
dusty, spicy-balsamic top notes and resinous, slightly medicinal, woodsmoke
undertones.
Myrrh is one of the most spiritual essential oils. It inspires peace and
tranquility and is excellent for meditation. It fortifies both body and
mind, strengthens the emotions, encourages initiatives and keeps the mind
clear and focus. Myrrh is a psychic protection and a symbol of eternity.
Myrrh is toxic in high concentration. It relieves scanty menstruation and
should be avoided by those who have heavy periods.
Do not take essential oils internally or use without the guidance of a
qualified practitioner. The information provided here is for general use
only and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.
Avoid during pregnancy.
