Commiphora Myrrha is often distilled from many species of this shrub, specifically C Longipedicellia, C Terebenthina, C Monoica, C Corrugata and C Africana. They are grown over an arc, from East Africa to Arabia and across to India. A good deal of Myrrh originates in Somalia and Ethiopia. It is a tough shrub, having very spiny branches and twigs. The leaves grow in small tufts and consist of three leaflets up to 2cm long. The flowers have short stalks and are white to light green. They produce a fruit of 1cm in diameter.
Myrrh is most commonly known as one of the gifts (along with gold and frankincense) the three wise men brought to Jesus in the New Testament. It was mentioned in the Bible 152 times. In order to harvest myrrh, the tree trunks must be cut into to release the resin. The resin is allowed to dry and begins to look like tears all along the tree trunk. The resin is then collected and the essential oil is made from the sap via steam distillation.
Myrrh oil has a smoky, sweet or sometimes bitter smell. The word myrrh comes from the Arabic word murr meaning bitter. The oil is a yellowish, orange colour with a viscous consistency. It is commonly used as a base for perfume and other fragrances.
Two primary active compounds are found in myrrh, called terpenoids and sesquiterpenes, both of which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Sesquiterpenes specifically also have an effect on our emotional centre in the hypothalamus, helping us remain calm and balanced. Both of these compounds are under investigation for their anticancer and antibacterial benefits, as well as other potential therapeutic uses.
Mind:Helpful with apathy and lack of incentive. It has a cooling effect on emotions.
Body:Well-known ‘drying' action against excessive mucous in the lungs. Powerful against bronchitis, colds, sore throats, catarrh, and pharyngitis. Could help with glandular fever. Excellent for mouth and gum disorders. A tonic to the stomach, stimulating appetite, stemming diarrhoea, easing flatulence, acidity and piles. Of great benefit for scanty periods, leucorrhoea and thrush. Said to stimulate white blood corpuscles. Has a direct anti-microbe effect.
Skin:Powerful skin preservative qualities, with a cooling action that could reduce boils, skin ulcers, sores and weeping and chapped wounds.
Caution:
May affect sensitive skin. Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.
