Myrrh oil

Common Name:  Myrrh oil

Botanical Name:  Commiphora myrrha

Other Names:  Myrrha, Balsamodendron Myrrha, Gum Myrrh oil

Introduction

Myrrh oil is another essential oil which is extracted from Commiphora myrrha which has the common name as Balsamodendron myrrha and Commiphora molmol. It belongs to the Burseraceae family and is known by other names like common and hirabol myrrh, gum, myrrha and bola.

Myrrh oil is a small tree which can only grow up to 5 meters with light bark and knotted branches which have few leaves and small white flowers. This plant is native to Somalia, Arabia and Yemen. When the bark is cut the gum resin give out a pale liquid color which dries into reddish-brown lumps about the size of walnut through which the oil is distilled. This essential oil has a slightly musty smell which is amber to pale yellow in color.

Uses of Myrrh oil

Aromatherapy: The magical effect of this essential oil is not uncommon in aromatherapy as it helps to increase spiritual self. It gives wonderful results for various female ailments related to skin problems.

Medicinal Uses: This essential oil was quite popular in the ancient world and was used as a medicine by the Egyptians and Chinese. Myrrh oil is obtained through steam distillation of the oleoresin-gum (crude myrrh) which yields about 3-5% of the oil. It is effective against mucus in the lungs and helps to clear colds, coughs, sore throats and bronchitis. It is also helpful in dyspepsia, diarrhea, flatulence and piles. In diseases of the mouth it is found useful in problems of the gums, mouth ulcers and pyorrhea. It is also employed to increase the flow during menstruation.