Myrrh

Commphora Myrrha

 Myrrh is harvested for its resin by incising its dull gray bark and collecting the yellow oil that exudes and hardens. As it ages, the sap becomes redder in color. The finest quality myrrh comes from Somalia and Ethiopia. It has been traditionally used as a sacred incense and medicine since ancient times. The analgesic properties of myrrh have been known since ancient times and depend on the presence of bioactive sesquiterpenes with furanodiene structure. Myrrh is a specific and highly effective antiseptic astringent for inflammation of the mouth, throat and gums.

Myrrh is stimulant, expectorant and decongestant with antibacterial properties. It is useful for relieving bronchitis, asthma and colds. In Ayurvedic terms, it dries kapha (mucous secretions), reduces Pitta (antibiotic), and stimulates prana (opens breathing). In terms of Traditional Chinese Medicine, it is a stimulant of Wei Qi.

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Morteza-Semnani K, Saeedi M (2003) Constituents of the essential oil of Commiphora myrrha (Nees) Engl. Var. molmol. J Essent Oil Res 15:50-51

Dolara P, Luceri C, Ghelardini C et al (1996) Analgesic effects of myrrh. Nature 379(6560):29

Blumenthal, M., Goldberg, A. and Brinckman, J. (2000) Herbal Medicine: Expanded Commission E Monographs. Austin, TX: American Botanical Council

Wilson RA, Mookherjee BD. (1983) Characterization of aroma donating components of myrrh. Proceedings of 9th International Congress of Essential Oils, Singapore, March 13-17, paper no. 400, pp. 1-10, Book 4. Singapore: Essential Oils Association of Singapore.

Hikino H, Agatsuma K, Konno C, Takemoto T. (1970) Sesquiterpenoids. 35. Structure of furanodiene and isofuranogermacrene (curzerene) Chem Pharm Bull 18, 752-755

Minor components with smooth muscle relaxing properties from scented myrrh (Commiphora guidotti). Andersson M, Bergendorff O, Shan R, Zygmunt P, Sterner O.