Myrrh

Myrrh

With special thanks to Sue Camp

Latin Name: Commiphora molmol/ myrrha/ mukul
Family: Burseraceae

Part used: Resin, volatile oils, gums
Energetics: Astringent, Bitter
Iris: Lymphatic iris
Interactions: Please check with your Healthcare Provider.

CONTRA-INDICATIONS

Allergic skin reactions have been reported with myrrh medicines. The liquid extract contains alcohol, which may cause short-lived pain and irritation on application to the skin or lining of the mouth.
Large doses may be unsafe; amounts greater than 2-4 grams can cause kidney irritation and heart rate changes.
In terms of pregnancy and lactation, taking myrrh orally during pregnancy is unsafe and should be avoided. Myrrh can stimulate the uterus and might cause miscarriage or preterm labour.
Breast-feeding women should also avoid using myrrh, since the safety of using it when breast-feeding is still unknown.
Guggulipid is reported to reduce the effect of antihypertensives such as Propanolol and Diltiazem and so medication should be adjusted accordingly.
Caution with hypoglycaemic medication.Should only be used for adults and adolescents over the age of 12 years old.

ACTIONS

  • Anti-helminthic
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Antimicrobial
  • Anti-infective
  • Antioxidant
  • Antiseptic
  • Anti-parasitic
  • Astringent
  • Analgesic
  • Anti-tumour
  • Carminative
  • Vulnerary
  • Hypolipidemic
  • Anti-diabetic
  • Detoxifier
  • Emmenagogue
  • Expectorant
  • Stomachic
  • Tonic
  • Neuroprotective

Main Constituents

  • Terpenoids (monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, diterpenoids, triterpenoids)
  • Commiphoric acids
  • Steroids – guggulesterol
  • Phenols
  • Carboxylic Acids
  • Volatile oil

Main Uses

Endometriosis, PCOS, Infective conditions. Increases iodine uptake
Anti-inflammatory: Myrrh has demonstrated anti-inflammatory characteristics by suppressing pro-inflammatory signalling pathways and strengthening anti-inflammatory agents. In the management of oral inflammatory response such as in periodontal diseases and gingivitis, and for inhibiting dental plaques, the anti-inflammatory features of myrrh have been utilised.
Hormonal: Myrrh can regulate the menstrual cycle and is a strong emmenagogue. It may help endometriosis, polycystic ovarian syndrome and clots, through reducing accumulations of the lower abdomen. Myrrh may help support the immune system, which could indirectly influence thyroid health, especially in autoimmune thyroid conditions. It can support iodine uptake which can potentially stimulate the thyroid gland.
Skin: Myrrh can be used to treat skin inflammations. Clinical trials have proven efficacy in acne as opposed to antibiotic treatment. It is used in stubborn skin lesions that are chronic, ‘stuck’ and resistant to other treatments.
It has been used as a dressing for ulcers to promote granulation and alter the character of the discharges. Topically, it can be applied to wounds, sore throat, swollen or ulcerated gums and teeth caries.
It also benefits general inflammations of the mucus membranes throughout the body, mouth ulcers and lung infections. It helps to regenerate tissue granulation and enhance healing; clears tumours, dead tissue and reduces lipomas.
Immune: Myrrh can increase the white blood cell count, which helps to clear infections, reduce sore throats and promote the immune response.
Dental: Gingivitis, Periodontitis, Tonsillitis.
Antioxidant: Compounds of the terpenoids present in high quantity in myrrh extracts may serve as electron donors that react with free radicals converting them to a more stable product thereby terminating the radical chain reactions.
Expectorant: Myrrh resin can increase white blood cell motility and facilitate mucus drainage. It has been shown to kill various microbes and to stimulate macrophages. It has been used in the management of respiratory diseases including chest infections.
Traditionally, myrrh oil has been added to hot water in a few drops and inhaled in the form of steam to help with nasal congestion.
Cholesterol: It can support the body’s natural ability to metabolise and process fat and is traditionally used to help reduce excessive levels of cholesterol and fat in the blood stream. Myrrh reduces cholesterol (LDL) and prevents accumulation. It has a property that ‘scrapes’ deposits from the channels, joints and tissues.

More About Myrrh

Mukul myrrh gum, also known as guggul, is not exactly the same as myrrh.
Myrrh is a resin that comes from the Commiphora myrrha tree, which is native to North-East Africa and the Middle East. Myrrh has a long history of use in traditional medicine and is mentioned in many ancient texts, including the Bible, for its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties.
Mukul myrrh gum or guggul, commonly found in thyroid-supportive supplements, is a resin derived from the Commiphora mukul (or Commiphora wightii) tree, which is native to India.
Guggul has been widely used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries, particularly for its potential lipid-lowering and anti-inflammatory effects.
While both resins share some common properties and are derived from trees in the same genus, they are different substances with unique chemical compositions and uses.
Commiphora myrrha is a plant species of the genus Commiphora, from the family Burseraceae, and its distribution is primarily in semi-arid and arid areas, including southern Arabia, northern Somalia (the biggest supplier), India, Sudan, northern Kenya, and Ethiopia, growing at an altitude of 1500-3000 feet in very hot and sunny areas.
After creating cuts in the branches of the Commiphora plant to allow the oleoresin to exude, exposed to air, and harden, myrrh can be harvested.
On an annual basis, each plant will produce between 0.5–1kg of resin which is collected for medicinal purposes.
It is distinguished by its unpleasant bitter and pungent flavour and balsamic fragrance, and when immersed in water, it produces an emulsion.
Myrrh is traditionally collected during the Autumn season, as it is believed to be more potent at this time of year.
The term “Myrrh” was coined from “murr” that has its origin from the Arabic language, meaning bitter.
Myrrh has been recognised for its therapeutic properties since the ancient times and has been used extensively in the treatment of wounds, management of aches, inflammation of the joints, parasitic infections, obesity, and gastrointestinal diseases in the ancient Egypt.
It is believed that myrrh was among the three presents that Magi has given to the infant Jesus.
It was reported that without a potion of myrrh to place on their injuries, Greek soldiers would not go to battles.
Myrrh was also an essential component in Egyptian mummification. Egyptians filled dead bodies with crushed myrrh. It was used as an antiseptic in mummification. Furthermore, the myrrh odour made the mummy fragrant.

Recipes


Immune Boosting Tea

Immune Boosting Tea with Myrrh Herbal Tincture:
This immune-boosting tea recipe combines myrrh tincture with other healthful ingredients to support the immune system. Myrrh is known for its antimicrobial properties, which can be beneficial during cold and flu season.

Ingredients

  • 1 mug of hot water
  • 1 teaspoon of honey (or to taste)
  • 1 slice of fresh lemon
  • 1-2 drops of myrrh tincture
  • 1 bag of a favourite herbal tea
  • A small piece of fresh ginger, grated
  • A pinch of cinnamon (optional)
  • A pinch of turmeric (optional)

Instructions

  1. Boil the water in a kettle or pot.
  2. While waiting for the water to boil, grate the fresh ginger.
  3. Place the tea bag, grated ginger, and optional spices (cinnamon and turmeric) into a mug.
  4. Once the water has boiled, pour it into the mug and allow the tea to steep for 5-10 minutes.
  5. After the tea has steeped, add the honey and squeeze in the fresh lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
  6. Finally, add 1-2 drops of myrrh tincture to the mug. Stir again.
  7. Allow the tea to cool for a moment before drinking.

This beverage can be consumed daily for immune support. But be aware that myrrh tincture can be potent, so be careful not to exceed the recommended dosage.
Disclaimer: Do not use myrrh if pregnant or breastfeeding.

Fungal Skin Oil

Fungal Skin Essential Oil Blend with Myrrh:
This recipe combines several essential oils known for their antifungal properties. While essential oils can be effective, it's crucial to remember that they are potent and can cause irritation if used improperly. Always dilute essential oils in a carrier oil before applying them to the skin and always perform a patch test to check for any allergic reactions.

Ingredients

  • 10 drops Myrrh Essential Oil
  • 10 drops Tea Tree Essential Oil
  • 8 drops Lavender Essential Oil
  • 5 drops Oregano Essential Oil
  • 2 tablespoons Carrier Oil (such as jojoba, sweet almond, grapeseed or coconut oil)

Instructions

  1. Add the essential oils to a small glass bottle.
  2. Add the carrier oil to dilute the essential oils.
  3. Secure the lid on the bottle and shake well to blend the oils together.
  4. Before using, perform a patch test by applying a small amount of the blend to an inconspicuous area of your skin. Wait 24 hours to see if any reaction occurs. If there is no reaction, the blend should be safe to use.
  5. To use, apply a small amount of the blend to the affected area using a cotton ball or swab. Do not use on broken skin or areas of the skin that are tender or inflamed.
  6. Apply up to twice daily. Monitor skin for any signs of a reaction and discontinue use if irritation occurs.

Disclaimer: Essential oils are powerful and can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions in some people.
Do not use this blend if pregnant, nursing, or have a medical condition without consulting a healthcare provider.
Always perform a patch test before applying the mix to the affected area.

References

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