- Other Names
- Gum Myrrh, Hirabol, Merra, and Somali Myrrhor
- Farming Method
- Certified Organic
- Plant Part
- Resin
- Country of Origin
- Somalia
- Application Method
- Bath, Massage, and Topical
- Scientific Name
- Commiphora myrrha
- Extraction Method
- CO2
About the Plant:
The word "Myrrh" in Arabic and Hebrew comes from "mur," meaning bitter. Myrrh resin, produced by the Commiphora myrrha bush, oozes as a thick pale-yellow liquid that hardens into reddish-brown, tear-like shapes upon cooling. The bush itself is very spiny, growing up to 5 meters tall, with a short, hairless, thick, flaky trunk. Its bark has two layers: a papery-textured outer layer that can be silvery, whitish, reddish, or bluish-grey, and a green inner layer that performs photosynthesis.
Commiphora myrrha is highly variable, making it difficult to distinguish from other species in the Commiphora genus. Its greyish-green leaves are papery and oblong or oval with a pinnately compound arrangement of three leaflets. The plant has tiny, oval-shaped, yellow-red dioecious flowers arranged in a panicle inflorescence, and its smooth, brown fruit is similar in size to the flowers.
The oleoresin from Commiphora myrrha's stem hardens into small clumps, valued for its aroma and medicinal properties due to its terpenoid content. Myrrh gum, like Frankincense, is a resin harvested by wounding the trees, causing the waxy gum to coagulate quickly. The harvested gum hardens, becoming glossy and yellowish, darkening and developing white streaks over time. This resin is then either steam distilled or used for CO2 extraction to make the essential oils of Myrrh.
Where It Grows:
Commiphora myrrha, also known as Commiphora molmol, is native to Somalia, Oman, Yemen, Eritrea, Ethiopia's Somali Region, and parts of Saudi Arabia. Arabian Myrrh, or meetiga, is more brittle and gummy than the Somali variety. Liquid Myrrh, or stacte, once a valued ingredient in Jewish holy incense as described by Pliny, is no longer commercially available.
The Myrrh bush is native to northeast Africa, southern Arabia, and southwest Asia. It thrives in desert regions with open Vachellia, particularly on slopes and valleys with thin, limestone-rich soil. In East Africa, countries like Ethiopia, Somaliland, and Kenya are key regions for Sweet Myrrh, where Commiphora erythraea trees flourish in semi-arid conditions. These trees are well-adapted to the arid terrain.
The Arabian Peninsula, especially Oman and Yemen, is another significant area for Myrrh production. Here, Commiphora erythraea trees grow in the arid deserts and mountainous terrains, embodying the region's ancient cultures with their aromatic resin.
Traditional Uses and Lore:
Myrrh Oil has a rich history spanning 4,000 years, mentioned in religious texts such as the Old and New Testaments, the Koran, and Ancient Greek and Roman writings. The Egyptians used Myrrh for mummification, religious ceremonies, and as a beauty aid.* In the 17th century, Chinese herbalists used it for bleeding, pain, and wounds.* In Ancient Egypt, Myrrh was used to treat hay fever and herpes.* The Ancient Greeks used it as an antiseptic for soldiers to clean up battle wounds, and Myrrh was commonly carried into the battlefield.*
Myrrh was highly valued in the ancient world for perfumes, incense, and medicinal purposes, including treating wounds, digestive issues, and respiratory ailments.* Pharmacologically, Myrrh has been used as an antiseptic in mouthwashes and liniments for skin ailments and muscle pain.* Claims include benefits for indigestion, colds, asthma, arthritis, and cancer, but more research is needed.*
In the Bible, Myrrh was a rare perfume and part of sacred anointing oil and incense. In Christianity, it is used in liturgical celebrations and sacramental chrism. In Islam, Myrrh is mentioned as a fumigant in hadiths. Christians have said that Myrrh was one of the gifts to baby Jesus and used at the funeral and burial of his death.
Other Facts:
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- Scent: Woody, Warm, Spicy, and Camphoraceous Aroma
- Fragrance Note: Base Note
- Composition: Curzerene, Lindestrene, Germacrone, Dihydropyrocurzerenone, ß-Elemene, and ɑ-Eudesmol
- Family: Burseraceae Family
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
- USDA Certified Organic
- Cultivates and Balances Presence in Spiritual Work
- Hydrates and Rejuvenates Dry and Mature Skin
- Opens Airways and Eases Symptoms of Bronchitis
Myrrh Organic CO2 has a rich, warm, and woody aroma that naturally promotes a sense of calm and tranquility.* This treasured essential oil has been revered for thousands of years, known for its grounding and uplifting qualities that help balance the mind and spirit.* In aromatherapy, Myrrh is often used to foster a deeper connection with the soft, intuitive side of the spirit, complementing the more masculine energy provided by Frankincense. Its soothing properties make it an ideal choice for meditation, relaxation, and enhancing moments of peace.*
In addition to its emotional benefits, Myrrh is cherished for its nourishing and restorative properties. It is often used in skincare for its ability to soothe dry, cracked skin and support the healing of rough or irritated areas.* Myrrh is particularly beneficial for addressing conditions like eczema and supporting overall skin health.* Myrrh has regenerating properties are helpful to counteract aging of the skin.* It is also used to help maintain a healthy respiratory system, offering a comforting effect when used in topical applications.* Studies have shown that Myrrh may possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory qualities, making it a valuable addition to any self-care routine.
Myrrh's diverse range of applications extends beyond skincare and emotional well-being. It is also believed to act as a mild analgesic, providing relief from menstrual discomfort and acting as a uterine stimulant.* This versatility, combined with its rich historical significance in religious rituals and medicinal treatments, underscores Myrrh’s continued importance in both ancient and contemporary practices. While its rich and viscous nature makes it unsuitable for diffusers or nebulizers, Myrrh excels in topical applications, making it an essential ingredient for those seeking a holistic, natural approach to health and wellness.*
Please note: Myrrh CO2 cannot be used in a nebulizer or nasal inhaler.
It is too thick and sticky; thus, Myrrh will clog them.
Topical Application (for use on the skin):
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Blends Well With:
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Safety Precautions:
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- Myrrh CO2 is non-toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitizing.*
- Myrrh could be toxic in high concentration.*
- It should not be used during pregnancy and when breastfeeding.*
- Myrrh could decrease effectiveness of blood thinners.*
- Thus, it should not be used if you take blood thinners, have diabetes, or heart problems.*
- Myrrh CO2 is non-toxic, non-irritating and non-sensitizing.*
General Safety Precautions:
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- Use essential oils only in diluted form on the skin and never internally.
- Always be careful when using essential oils with children.
- Give them only low doses, or better, consult a qualified aromatherapy expert before using.
- Also, use essential oils with care and only under the proper guidance of an expert while pregnant or if you have liver damage, epilepsy, cancer, or other serious health problems.
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
The historical significance of Myrrh further underscores its ongoing relevance today. In ancient times, it was revered by civilizations such as the Egyptians, who incorporated it into religious rituals, mummification practices, and beauty treatments. This long-standing tradition highlights Myrrh’s enduring importance as a powerful essential oil with spiritual, medicinal, and cosmetic applications. Today, Myrrh continues to be a sought-after ingredient in both traditional remedies and modern wellness practices, bridging the gap between ancient healing and contemporary self-care.
Myrrh CO2 has a rich, warm, and woody aroma that naturally promotes a sense of calm and tranquility. This highly valued essential oil has been cherished for thousands of years for its grounding and uplifting qualities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking emotional balance.* Myrrh is often used in aromatherapy to foster a deeper connection with the soft, intuitive aspect of the spirit, offering a soft, nurturing energy that complements the more masculine focus provided by Frankincense.* Its soothing properties make Myrrh perfect for enhancing moments of peace, relaxation, and mindfulness, whether used in meditation practices or as a calming addition to your personal care routine.*
Beyond its emotional benefits, Myrrh is also celebrated for its nourishing and restorative effects on the skin.* It has been used for centuries to soothe dry, cracked skin and promote the healing of irritated or rough areas.* Particularly effective for conditions like eczema, Myrrh helps to alleviate discomfort and support the skin's natural healing processes.* Myrrh has regenerating properties are helpful to counteract aging of the skin.* It also aids in maintaining a healthy respiratory system, offering a comforting effect when applied topically.* Additionally, studies suggest that Myrrh possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a valuable tool in skincare and overall wellness.*
Myrrh’s versatility extends into a variety of applications beyond skin health. It is widely regarded for its mild analgesic properties, helping to alleviate menstrual discomfort and acting as a uterine stimulant.* Myrrh has been used traditionally to support the body during times of hormonal imbalance, providing relief during the menstrual cycle and promoting overall reproductive health.* This multi-faceted oil is also believed to assist with easing muscle tension and minor aches, contributing to a well-rounded self-care regimen that addresses both physical and emotional well-being.*
Despite its rich and viscous nature, which makes Myrrh unsuitable for use in diffusers or nebulizers, it excels in topical applications. Whether used in skincare, as part of a holistic health regimen, or for emotional balance, Myrrh provides a gentle yet powerful approach to well-being. Its soothing, grounding qualities make it an essential oil that can enhance not only your physical health but also your emotional and spiritual wellness. Whether used alone or in combination with other essential oils, Myrrh remains a timeless and versatile addition to any self-care ritual.
The following is a list of conditions which Myrrh CO2 addresses by category:
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*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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Click the links below to view GC Analysis: |
Click the links below to view CoA Analysis: |
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Click the link below to view Safety Data Sheet (SDS): |
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
