by Allison Prater |
The aromatic resins of Myrrh have been admired by humans for centuries. Considered precious, myrrh is a wonderful addition to perfume, soap and incense. Traditionally revered as a powerful medicine and holy anointing oil, myrrh resin comes from a small tree that grows in the hot regions of India, the Middle East and northern Africa.
When burned as incense, Myrrh resin repels mosquitoes. The complex aroma of myrrh is quite pleasant and completely non-toxic, an ancient alternative to some manufactured mosquito repellents and candles that contain pollutants such as deet. Egyptians traditionally burned Myrrh resin for fumigation. It is helpful to burn myrrh in sick rooms, due to its antiseptic, deodorizing and disinfectant properties.
Medicinally speaking, myrrh is a potent and powerful addition to your natural healing tool kit. The Aldehydes and phenols in the oil combine with the resin acid to give myrrh its astringent qualities. It stimulates the immune system and gastric secretions, relaxing the smooth muscles in your stomach, aiding in digestion. It also tones and stimulates mucous tissue, making it an effective expectorant.
Myrrh also helps fight harmful bacteria in the mouth. Its antiseptic and antimicrobial actions are excellent in treating bad breath, periodontal disease and other mouth disorders. It is helpful in treating colds, flu, sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis, sore throat, herpes simplex and ulcers. It can also be used topically for abscesses, boils, sores and wounds. You can find Myrrh in the form of extracts, powders, and essential oils, in addition to resins and incense. Myrrh is available at many health food stores, as well as stores that sell bulk herbs and other natural healing products.
Myrrh Recipes
Miraculous Myrrh Mosquito Repellent
- 3 drops essential oil of Myrrh
- 2 drops essential oil of Lavender in a 16 oz spray bottle of water.
- Spray over the whole body, avoiding eye area.
Myrrh Cologne
Oil of Myrrh may be worn as a perfume or cologne. It combines beautifully with essential oils of Sandalwood and Frankincense.
Miraculous Myrrh Toothpaste
- One part powder of Myrrh
- One part powder of Goldenseal
Mix equal parts and use as powder to brush teeth three to four times a day. It will taste bitter, but will work wonders to strengthen the teeth and gums. This powder can also be used topically, and in herbal baths for the purposes of wound healing.
*These recipes are not intended as a substitute for professional and competent wellness care. Always consult a health professional you trust with your health concerns.
References:
- Kowalchik, Claire and William H. Hylton, Rodale’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of Herbs, Rodale Press, Pennsylvania, 1987.
- Gardener, Joy The New Healing Yourself, Natural Remedies for Adults and Children, The Crossing Press, California, 1989.
- Balch, Phyllis A., CNC and James F. Balch, M.D., Prescriptions for Natural Healing, Third Edition, Penguin Putnam, New York, 2000.
- Romm, Aviva Jill, Naturally Healthy Babies and Children, Celestial Arts, California, 2003.
