Myrrh

September 16, 2009 | By admin In Essential Oils Reference Guide |

The Ancient Egyptians used Myrrh to embalm the dead, as an antiseptic, and burned it for religious sacrifice. In ancient history myrrh was used as a constituent of perfumes and incense, was highly valued.

In Chinese medicine, myrrh is classified as bitter, spicy, neutral in temperature and affecting the heart, liver, and spleen meridians. Its uses are similar to those of frankincense, with which it is often combined in decoctions, liniments and incense. When used in concert, myrrh is “blood-moving” while frankincense moves the Qi, making it more useful for arthritic conditions. Myrrh also has been used in the treatment of amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menopause and uterine tumors, as its “blood-moving” properties can purge stagnant blood out of the uterus.

Myrrh has also been recommended to help toothache pain, and can be used in liniment for bruises, aches and sprains.

Myrrh is most commonly used in Chinese medicine for rheumatic, arthritic and circulatory problems. It is combined with such herbs as notoginseng, safflower stamens, Angelica sinensis, cinnamon and Salvia miltiorrhiza, usually in alcohol, and used both internally and externally.

In Modern usage, myrrh is used as an antiseptic and is most often used in mouthwashes, gargles and toothpastes for prevention and treatment of gum disease. Myrrh is currently used in some liniments and healing salves that may be applied to abrasions and other minor skin ailments. It is also used in the production of Fernet.

Botanical name : Commiphora myrrha

Plant origin: Tree, resin

Extraction method: distillation

Aroma: Warm, smoky, balsamic

Odor Intensity: Very high

Evaporation rate: Base note

Medicinal Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antifungal,antimicrobial, antiphlogistic, antiseptic, expectorant, sedative, uterine tgonic.

Safety Precautions: Avoid during pregnancy. Use in moderation.

Phycho-emotional benefits:

Extreme emotion states,confusion,hysteria,fear, panic.

Physical benefits:

cuts, ulcers, wounds, dry, cracked skin, aging, mature skin, asthma, mouth ulcer, gum infections, oral thrush, sore throat, loss of voice.