Though classified as shrubs, Myrrh can grow up to 30 feet in height. The trunk exudes a natural oleo resin that hardens into what is classified as reddish brown “tears”. Native collectors make incisions into the trees in order to increase the yield.
Botanical Name:
Commiphora myrrha
Aromatic Aroma:
Myrrh has a warm, spicy, balsamic aroma
Consistency:
Medium
Note:
Middle
Aroma Strength:
Medium
Extraction Method:
Steam Distilled
Plant Part:
Resin
Origin:
Eygpt
Color:
Yellow to amber to greenish-brown
Common Uses:
Myrrh is thought to enhance spirituality. Aromatherapists use it as an aid in meditation or before healing. Its actions are characterized as the following: antimicrobial, antifungal, astringent and healing, tonic and stimulant, carminative, stomachic, anti-catarrhal, expectorant, diaphoretic, vulnerary, locally antiseptic, immune stimulant, bitter, circulatory stimulant, anti-inflammatory, and antispasmodic.
Blends Well With:
Frankincense, Lavender, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Rose, Rosewood, Sandalwood, Tea Tree and Thyme.
History:
Myrrh has been used for centuries as an ingredient in incense, perfumes, and for embalming and fumigation in Ancient Egypt. In folk tradition it was used for muscular pains and in rheumatic plasters. Called mo yao in China, it has been used since at least 600B.C. primarily as a wound herb and blood stimulant. Gerard said of myrrh ' the marvelous effects that it worked in new and green wounds were here too long to set down...' Myrrh Oil, distilled from the resin, has been used since ancient Greek times to heal wounds.
Cautions:
Can be possibly toxic in high concentrations, and should not be used during pregnancy. Since this Myrrh has a slightly thick consistency, we would recommend placing the bottle in a very hot water bath, changing the water frequently and once it is back to the liquid state be sure to shake before use.
