Myrrh, Wildcrafted

Product Details

Botanical name

Commiphora myrrha

Extraction method / Source

CO2 Extraction / Resin

Aroma

Warm, spicy, with a sharp balsamic top note

Note classification

Base

Odor Intensity

7

Key constituents

Furanoeudesma-1,3-diene, curzerenone,heerabolele, limonene,dipentene, pinene, eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, cuminaldehyde, cumic alcohol, m-cresone, cadinene, curzerene

Plant description

Botanical family: Burseraceae

The myrrh plant is a large bush or tree native to southern Arabia and northeast Africa. It has gnarly branches and produces trifoliate leaves and small white flowers. The bush exudes a fragrant yellow resin which turns reddish brown as it hardens. Incisions are made in the bark to increase the amount of resin which can be collected. Myrrh essential oil is produced from the dried resin.

Regions of Production

Ethiopia

Growing Practices

Plants indigenous to the area are harvested from the wild, away from chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

History / Fun Facts

Myrrh is one of the oldest known aromatic substances. In ancient Egypt it was used as incense in religious ceremonies and for embalming. Egyptian women used myrrh in facial care balms to maintain a youthful complexion. As described in the Bible, Myrrh was among the gifts brought to Jesus at his birth and at his death.

Properties

Antiviral, anti-inflammatory (Schnaubelt, 1998). Anti-fungal, antimicrobial, antiseptic, astringent, decongestant, digestive aid and stimulant, expectorant, promotes healthy menstruation, respiratory stimulant, sedative, tonic, supports wound healing. (Battaglia, 2003).

Uses / Benefits

Made into an ointment, myrrh can be used to treat slow healing wounds, decubitus ulcers, hemorrhoids and weeping eczema. Beneficial in the treatment of athlete's foot. Helpful in treating coughs, colds and bronchitis. Recommended for dry and chapped skin and for mature skin. Promotes menstruation and helps relieve painful menses. Used for meditation and as a fixative for natural perfumes.

Note: Myrrh essential oil becomes better as it ages, if stored properly.

Fragrant influences

Uplifting, soothing, promotes acceptance, inner peace and feelings of abundance. Unites physical and spiritual awareness. Useful for meditation.

Modes of Administration

Topical: massage, compress, douche, ointments and skin care

Inhalation: direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporizer, aromatherapy inhaler

Blends well with

Bergamot, Cypress, Eucalyptus Lemon, Frankincense, Galbanum, Geranium, Grapefruit, Hyssop, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Pine, Rosemary, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang

Safety

Reported to be non-toxic, non-irritating, non-sensitizing. Myrrh is classified as an abortifaciant, although there is no scientific evidence to support this. Nonetheless, we recommend that Myrrh be avoided during pregnancy. (Battaglia, 2003)

Notice

This information is for educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.

Precautions

Pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Do not use them undiluted, or in the eyes or mucus membranes. If applying an essential oil to the skin, always dilute it with a proper carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying to a large area. Do not take them internally except under the direction of a qualified professional trained in Aromatherapy. Always familiarize yourself with the safety, contraindications and proper preparation of each essential oil before use. Note that when using essential oils for children and the elderly, very low concentrations should be used. Keep all essential oils away from children and pets.

References

Battaglia, Salvatore, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Second Edition, 2003. The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Brisbane, Australia

Schnaubelt, Kurt, Advanced Aromatherapy: The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, (English translation)1998. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.

Worwood, Valerie Ann, The Complete Book of Essential Oils & Aromatherapy, 1991. New World Library, Novato, California

TIMELESS Essential Oils guarantees the purity and quality of all our therapeutic oils. The current Certificate of Analysis is available upon request. All essential oils are best stored in an airtight container away from heat and light.