Fantastic Benefits of Essential Oil of Myrrh

Myrrh oil is obtained from the commiphora myrrha tree. A yellow sap comes out when the bark is cut and this dries into reddish-brown, sweet and smokey smelling resin. Essential oil of Myrrh is made from this. The oil is a golden yellow or brownish color and has a rich, smokey, balsamic odor, milder than that of the resin The myrrh tree has a light bark, knotted branches and small, white flowers. It grows up to five meters tall.It is native to North Africa and the Middle East. Myrrh was used by ancient cultures. The Chinese valued its medicinal properties, the Egyptians used it to embalm pharoahs as well as for sun-worshipping rituals and Greek soldiers were known to have used myrrh resin to stop wounds from bleeding. Myrrh has been used as a holy oil and incense in religious ceremonies and rituals for over 5,000 years.Today, essential oil of myrrh continues to be enjoyed and used for its scent and medicinal properties.It contains many health-enhancing compounds, such as terpenoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and sesquiterpenes, which affect the brain, hormones and emotions.

Fantastic Benefits of Essential Oil of Myrrh

Myrrh is antifungal and is useful as a fungicide

It is an expectorant and can relieve congestion, coughs and the symptoms of colds. It fights viral infections and reduces phlegm in the lungs and repiratory tract.

Myrrh acts as a stimulant for blood circulation and the secretions of digestion.It has been known to be helpful in curing stomach upsets and can provide relief from diarrhea, indigestion, flatulence and hemorrhoids and helps to maintain the proper metabolic rate.

It stimulates thinking, the brain and the nervous system.

As a carminative, myrrh generally benefits the stomach and gives relief from gas.

It is an antiseptic and protects wounds and cuts from infection as well as promoting tissue repair, which helps wounds to heal more rapidly.

Myrrh is a general immune booster, strengthening and activating the immune system.

Myrrh has anti-inflammatory properties which make it useful in cases of fever, viral infections and problems in the stomach after eating too much spicy food.

It is anti-spasmodic, providing relief from unwanted contractions, spasms, cramps and muscle pains.

Myrrh can act as an anti-depressant and can facilitate spiritual healing and meditation. It is also beneficial for the healing of emotional wounds.

It is beneficial for skin conditions, such as eczema, ringworm and irritations.

It regulates menstruation and is good for the uterus.

The effects of myrrh have been beneficial for dental issues. It has been used in the treatment of toothache, mouth ulcers and gingivitis. As a breath-freshener, it can be added to a natural toothpaste or mouthwash.

Myrrh is good for use in the maintenance of healthy skin. It helps reduce wrinkles and signs of ageing and soothes cracked, chapped and even sunburned skin.

 It can be added to skin-care products and to a carrier oil for use in massage.

It has also had a positive effect on thyroid conditions.

How to Use Essential Oil of Myrrh

To help heal emotions and overcome depression essential oil of myrrh can be diffused throughout the room in a vaporizer or a couple of drops can be rubbed into the palms of the hands and inhaled. This can be beneficial for general fear as well as for feelings of abandonment and insecurity.Inhaling myrrh also helps to relieve physical symptoms and discomfort. 

It can be diffused and inhaled during the practise of yoga and meditation.

A drop of myrrh massaged into the back of the neck or the forehead is good for the brain.

To help resolve dental issues, add a drop of myrrh to the toothpaste every time you brush your teeth.It can also be added to a mouthwash to heal infections in the mouth.

Myrrh can be added to a base of coconut oil and applied to areas of chapped, cracked, dry skin and also to stretchmarks. It can be diluted and put onto a cold compress  and applied to sores and wounds. A drop of myrrh and a drop of lavender oil added to a base of coconut or aloe vera will help relieve sunburn. Apply this two or three times a day. 

Myrrh can be added to skin care lotions to reduce wrinkles and signs of ageing. Myrrh works well with frankincense and sandlewood in this case. When put into a cream or lotion, it can also treat chronic wounds, ulcers, athlete's foot, eczema, bedsores, boils and acne.

To help in cases of liver and thyroid problems, myrrh can be diffused and inhaled or inhaled from the hands. 

Massaging myrrh oil into the reflex points of the feet will help facilitate the body's healing process when dealing with tumors.

Diffusing myrrh throughout the room or inhaling it with steam can relieve the symptoms of coughs and colds, congestion and bronchitis.

For general benefit, essential oil of myrrh can be included in a blend and used in a full body massage, or it can be massaged over the problem area. For example, the stomach in cases of dysentery and stomach problems. It can also be massaged into the reflex areas on the bottoms of the feet.

Myrrh blends well with frankincense, lavender, palma rosa, patchouli, rosewood, sandlewood, tea-tree and thyme. It is considered a base note oil in aromatherapy as it helps hold the blend together with its lingering aroma. It is a harmonizing agent. Frankincense and sandlewood are also base note oils. Top note oils such as peppermint, eucalyptus and lemon, have a stronger aroma, are more volatile and evaporate more quickly. Middle note oils, such as majorim, aniseed and thyme, are heavy with more subtle, longer-lasting fragrances.

Risks of Essential Oil of Myrrh

Essential oil of myrrh is generally safe if used in moderation. Excessive use can result in lowered blood pressure, heart irregularities, uterine bleeding and diarrhea. It could also worsen a fever.

 It is not recommended for pregnant or nursing mothers as it can induce menstruation and premature labour.

It should not be used on very young children.

Diabetics should consult a health practitioner before using it.

A patch test for allergic reaction and contact dermatitis should also be done before applying it to the skin. 

It can interfere with anticoagulants.

It should be kept out of the eyes, nose and ears.

How to Store Essential Oil of Myrrh

Like all essemtial oils, myrrh should be kept out of reach of children and stored in dark-colored glass bottles, which filter out the sun's ultra-violet light, in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. It should be kept away from extreme or repeated changes of temperature. It should also be kept away from cookers, fires, candles or any kind of flame as it is flammable.