Myrrh

Myrrh: history of use and healing properties

Myrrha is the pharmaceutical name for an air-hardened gum obtained from trees of the Burseraceae family. Myrrh has been known since ancient times and has been used for medicinal purposes in ancient Egypt and in Chinese medicine. Currently, myrrh is widely used in pharmacology, cosmetology and perfumery.

Botanical description of myrrh

The source plant for myrrh grows in Somalia, Ethiopia, Yemen and Sudan. This is a small tree, barely reaching a height of 3 m, with small, often curled leaves and flowers forming paniculate inflorescences. Other tropical trees of the genus Commiphora are also used to obtain raw materials. Arabian myrrh, for example, is harvested from larger trees, up to 10 m in height, covered with thorns.

Collection and preparation of myrrh

From the glandular receptacles, more precisely from the glandular passages of the bark, when cuts are made, but without external pressure, milky juice flows out, which, when dried, becomes gray-brown or yellowish-brown, shiny or as if dusty in appearance. Individual such grain-sized pieces accumulate in clusters. They are collected by the producers. The surface of the fractured piece is shiny, reddish-brown or amber in color. Myrrh is aromatic and tastes spicy, pungent, persistently bitter. When chewing, it creaks on the teeth.

Active ingredients of myrrh

The action of myrrh is based mainly on the content of essential oil (3-10%), resin (20-40%), mucus, pectin and other components.

Healing properties of myrrh

Myrrh has disinfectant and skin irritating properties due to the essential oil it contains. Myrrh is used externally in the form of a tincture for rinsing, cauterizing, and irrigating the mouth, especially for gum inflammation. It can also be used in combination with other remedies to treat various diseases.

The use of myrrh in medicine

Myrrh is used medicinally to treat coughs, colds, flu, bronchitis, sore throat, toothache, gum disease, ulcers, wounds, hemorrhoids, headaches, migraines, arthritis, rheumatism, etc. Myrrh is also used as a deodorant and antiseptic, as well as to improve digestion and reduce blood cholesterol levels.

The use of myrrh in cosmetology and perfumery

Myrrh is widely used in cosmetology and perfumery due to its aromatic and antiseptic properties. It is added to creams, masks, lotions, shampoos and other cosmetics to improve the condition of skin and hair. In perfumery, myrrh is used as a base note to create warm, woody scents.

conclusions

Myrrh is a valuable natural product that has been known for many millennia. It has many beneficial properties and is widely used in medicine, cosmetology and perfumery. However, like any other medicine, myrrh may have side effects, so you should consult your doctor or specialist before using it.