Myrrh - Health Benefits and Side Effects

The Myrrh Tree (Commiphora myrrha)
(Click on image to enlarge)
Attribution:Sergej Marsnjak

Botanical Name of Myrrh: Commiphora molmol, Commiphora abbysinica, Commiphora myrrha - The common name “myrrh” means “bitter” in Arabic.
Other Common Names:
Myrrh tree, guggal gum, guggal resin, myrrh gum, didthin, and didin, mo yao

Habitat:
Native to Ethiopia, Somalia, the eastern Mediterranean, and the Arabian Peninsula. This tree prefers desert regions.

Plant Description:
Myrrh is a shrub-like tree that reaches only about nine feet in height. This tree has a thick, light grey trunk with sharp spines protruding from its main branches. The serrated-edged leaves grow in groups of three consisting of two small, oval leaves and one larger leaf. Yellowish-red flowers hang in elongated, branching clusters, accompanied by small brown oval fruits.

Plant Parts Used:
Sap.

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Therapeutic Uses, Claims and Benefits of Myrrh

Myrrh is traditionally used as burned incense which repels fleas and mosquitoes.
Thought to be effective for pain relief, including menstrual pain resulting from blood stagnation.
Powdered myrrh is used in Germany to treat throat and mouth inflammation. It is also used on external injuries to reduce swelling. Applied directly to teeth, myrrh can also help ease the pain of toothache.

The Herb Myrrh
(Commiphora molmol)

The ancient Chinese used myrrh to treat wounds and bruises; it is still used as a broad-spectrum antiseptic in various wounds and sores including cold sores and canker sores. It is also believed that the use of myrrh promotes healing, making it a popular ingredient in veterinary salves.
Taken internally, myrrh’s antiseptic properties help treat gingivitis and loose teeth, as well as help get rid of bad breath or halitosis.
Antifungal properties make myrrh a choice herbal treatment for athlete’s foot, candida, and other fungus-related conditions.
Myrrh is thought to be a good herb to reduce cholesterol levels, though clinical studies are thus far inconclusive.
Mixed with boric acid and boiling water, myrrh can be used as a gargle for oral inflammation, sore throat, and gum issues. Myrrh gargles may also be beneficial in other mouth and throat diseases such as strep throat.
Internally, myrrh has been used as an expectorant and to relieve gastric distress. Additionally, it is used to soothe or relax smooth muscle tissue.
Research is currently underway to confirm possible cancer-fighting properties in myrrh.
Myrrh has antimicrobial properties and is used internally to stimulate microphage action in the blood stream.

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Dosage and Administration

Myrrh is used powdered, in a tincture, or in capsule form. This is a popular ingredient in dental care products, perfumed body care products, and as a food flavoring. Dosage varies, though labeling on commercial products should always be adhered to. A qualified physician will be able to give conclusive information on dosage for the specific ailment being treated for and which form of the herb is the best to use.

For a tincture, powdered myrrh can be added to a 50/50 solution of water mixed with gin, vodka, or brandy. There should be enough alcohol to cover the powdered myrrh. Place in a cool, dark place for approximately two weeks, shaking several times daily. The tincture should then be strained, placed in a dark bottle, and stored away from strong light. Take 1-2 mL three times a day.

Essential oil can be rubbed directly on the chest and throat to relieve the symptoms of bronchitis, or diluted with water or other base and applied directly to sores, bruises, and open wounds.

Side Effects and Possible Interactions of Myrrh

Myrrh should be avoided by pregnant or nursing mothers. This herb should not be given to children and should be kept out of their reach. Myrrh may cause irritation of the eyes and mucous membranes. Currently, there are no known interactions or side effects associated with myrrh, but as with any herbal remedy a doctor should be consulted before use.

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