Myrrh, Myrrh Gum

Commiphora myrrha

Physical Characteristics

Commiphora myrrha is a deciduous Shrub growing to 5 m (16ft) by 6 m (19ft) at a medium rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 10 and is not frost tender. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very alkaline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil and can tolerate drought.

Distribution

Eastern and northeastern Tropical Africa - Ethiopia, Somalia, Kenya; Arabian Peninsula - Saudi Arabia, Oman..

Habitats

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Inner bark Edible Uses: Condiment Gum A fragrant, balsam-like gum oleo-resin is obtained from wounds in the bark of the stems[ 46 ]. It is used for flavouring beverages, baked goods, sweets, desserts, chewing gum etc[ 301 ].

Medicinal Uses

Antiinflammatory Antiseptic Antispasmodic Aromatherapy Aromatic Astringent Digestive Expectorant Febrifuge Mouthwash Odontalgic Skin Stimulant The resin obtained from the bark of myrrh is a pungent, astringent, aromatic herb that is strongly stimulant, antiseptic and expectorant[ 238 ]. It relieves spasms, inflammation and digestive discomfort, and encourages healing[ 238 ]. It is particularly associated with women's health and purification rituals[ 238 ]. The resin is taken internally in the treatment of dyspepsia, bronchial and ear infections, glandular fever, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, gingivitis, menstrual and circulatory problems[ 238 ]. Myrrh is used externally to treat mouth ulcers, wounds and boils and is often added to oral preparations[ 238 ]. It is one of the most effective herbal medicines for treating sore throats, mouth ulcers and gingivitis[ 254 ]. The mild astringency makes it a useful treatment for acne, boils and mild inflammatory skin problems[ 254 ]. The resin is collected from cut branches and dried to a solid, which can be distilled for oil, ground into a powder for tablets, or dissolved in tinctures[ 238 ]. An essential oil obtained from the resin is used by aromatherapists as a natural antiseptic for treating skin and mouth problems[ 303 ].

Known Hazards

This herb is contraindicated during pregnancy because of its emmenagogic activity. It is advisable to dilute myrrh before use and administer moderate doses. Allergic reactions have been observed[ 303 ]. (Poison: This herb is contraindicated during pregnancy because of its emmenagogic activity. It is advisable to dilute myrrh before use and administer moderate doses. Allergic reactions have been observed.)