Myrrh
What is Myrrh?
The Commiphora species that serve as sources of myrrh are thorny shrubs or small trees that grow to up to 3 meters high. They are native to Africa, eastern Mediterranean countries, and southern Arabia. A pale yellow-white viscous liquid exudes from natural cracks or fissures in the bark or from fissures cut intentionally to harvest the material. When air-dried, this exudate hardens into a reddish-brown mass that often contains white patches.
Scientific Name(s)
Commiphora myrrha (T. Nees) Engl., Commiphora abyssinica (Bevg.) Engl., or Commiphora molmol Engl. Family: Burseraceae
Common Name(s)
African myrrh ( C. habessinica), Somali Myrrh (C. molmol), Arabian and Yemen myrrh (C. abyssinica), myrrha, myrrhe, gum myrrh, bola, bal, bol, heerabol
What is it used for?
Traditional/Ethnobotanical uses
Myrrh has been used for centuries as incense and for medicinal purposes. Medicinally, it has been used as an astringent, antiseptic, antiparasitic, antitussive, emmenagogue, and antispasmodic agent. It was commonly included in mixtures used to treat worms, wounds, and sepsis during the 4th century BC. Myrrh has also been reported to treat gout, headache, jaundice, throat ailments, indigestion, fatigue, and paralysis. Myrrh has been used in a variety of infectious diseases, including leprosy and syphilis, and to treat cancers. The Chinese have used myrrh in the management of a variety of skin and mouth infections. Myrrh played a key role in the religious ceremonies of the ancient Egyptians. Today, myrrh is used as a component of fragrances and as an astringent in mouthwashes and gargles.
General uses
Myrrh is used as a fragrance in cosmetics and as a flavoring agent in foods and beverages. It has also been used as an astringent, as an antiseptic to be applied to inflamed sores of the throat and mouth, to stimulate menstruation, as an antispasmodic, and for the treatment of cancer and infectious diseases. Myrrh also has a potential role in the treatment of schistosomiasis and fascioliasis; however, there is limited clinical information to support these uses.
Related/similar drugs
Ginkgo Biloba, turmeric, milk thistle
What is the recommended dosage?
Myrrh may be administered as a tincture or in dental powders, tea, rinses, and gargles.
Contraindications
Contraindications have not been identified.
Pregnancy/Lactation
Documented harmful effects. Avoid use. Myrrh can stimulate menstruation and induce abortion.
Interactions
Myrrh may interact with warfarin and other coumarin derivatives, resulting in a reduction in the international normalized ratio (INR).
Side Effects
Several cases of skin irritation have been reported.
Toxicology
Research reveals no serious toxicities.
References
More about myrrh
Professional resources
Related treatment guides
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.
