Myrrh Gum and Powder Profile
Also known as
Commiphora myrrha, Balasmodendron myrrha.
Introduction
With its smoky, earthy scent, myrrh has a long history as a favorite among all cultures going back to its first discovery in the far reaches of time. A native to Ethiopia and Somalia, it has been used as long ago as 3000 BCE by the Egyptians in embalming, and as an incense burned during cremations and funerals to disguise any foul odors up through the 15th century. Myrrh is said to be one of the key ingredients in the mythical Egyptian perfume Kyphi. It has also been used to anoint kings, and scent fabrics for those traveling to holy places. Myrrh has had a great value throughout time; the Romans even valued it as much as gold, using it as security for monetary debts. Myrrh has been used traditionally for the treatment for spasms, infections, coughs, colds, failure of menstruation, and chronic fatigue. In Ayurvedic medicine, myrrh is a favorite addition to the rasayanas for rejuvenation and disease prevention, especially as a spring tonic.
Constituents
Gums, resins, sterols, volatile oils.
Parts Used
Dried exudates (resin) from the bark.
Typical Preparations
Tincture, rarely tea or encapsulation, included in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese herbal mixtures. Used in conjunction with other ingredients for the development of many cosmetic applications.
Summary
Despite its long history, the use of myrrh has declined over the past few hundred years. Today myrrh is used a topical antiseptic for cuts, scrapes, scratches, and abrasions, and as an addition to toothpastes, mouthwashes, and gargles to control infections of the mouth and throat. In Chinese herbal medicine, it is included in formulas to treat uterine fibroids, although it is not used alone. The German E Commission's monograph states that it is good for the topical treatment of oral inflammations, and as an antiseptic.
Precautions
Avoid use when you have "red" symptoms, for example, fever, blistering, hot flashes, or nervous tension. It use is not recommended while pregnant and it may cause nausea or vomiting in excess.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
