Myrrh Gum Profile
Also known as
Commiphora myrrha, Balasmodendron myrrha.
Introduction
With its smoky, earthy scent, myrrh has a long history as a
favorite among all cultures going back to its first discovery in the far
reaches of time. A native to Ethiopia and Somalia, it has been used as
long ago as 3000 BCE by the Egyptians in embalming, and as an incense
burned during cremations and funerals to disguise any foul odors up
through the 15th century. Myrrh is said to be one of the key ingredients
in the mythical Egyptian perfume Kyphi. It has also been used to anoint
kings, and scent fabrics for those traveling to holy places. Myrrh has
had a great value throughout time; the Romans even valued it as much as
gold, using it as security for monetary debts. Myrrh has been used
traditionally for the treatment for spasms, infections, coughs, colds,
failure of menstruation, and chronic fatigue. In Ayurvedic medicine,
myrrh is a favorite addition to the rasayanas for rejuvenation and
disease prevention, especially as a spring tonic.
Constituents
Gums, resins, sterols, volatile oils.
Parts Used
Dried exudates (resin) from the bark.
Typical Preparations
Tincture, rarely tea or encapsulation, included in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese herbal mixtures.
Used in conjunction with other ingredients for the development of many cosmetic applications.
Summary
Despite its long history, the use of myrrh has declined over
the past few hundred years. Today myrrh is used a topical antiseptic for
cuts, scrapes, scratches, and abrasions, and as an addition to
toothpastes, mouthwashes, and gargles to control infections of the mouth
and throat. In Chinese herbal medicine, it is included in formulas to
treat uterine fibroids, although it is not used alone. The German E
Commission's monograph states that it is good for the topical treatment
of oral inflammations, and as an antiseptic.
Precautions
Avoid use when you have "red" symptoms, for example, fever, blistering, hot flashes, or nervous tension.
It use is not recommended while pregnant and it may cause nausea or vomiting in excess.
For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is
not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
This product was added to our catalog on Monday 16 August, 2010.
