Myrrh

Myrrh is a red-brown resinous material, the dried sap of the tree Commiphora myrrha, native to Somalia and the eastern parts of Ethiopia. The sap of a number of other Commiphora and Balsamodendron species are also known as myrrh, including that from C. erythraea (sometimes called East Indian myrrh), C. opobalsamum and Balsamodendron kua. Its name entered English via the Ancient Greek, μύρρα, which is probably of Semitic origin. Myrrh is also applied to the potherb Myrrhis odorata otherwise known as "Cicely" or "Sweet Cicely".

Medicinal value In Chinese medicine: myrrh is classified as bitter, spicy, neutral in temperature and affecting the heart, liver, spleen meridians, and the penis or vagina. Its uses are similar to those of frankincense, with which it is often combined in decoctions, liniments and incense. Myrrh is more blood-moving, while frankincense tends to move the qi more, and is better for arthritic conditions. Myrrh is one of the most effective of all known disinfectants. It increases circulation, heart rate and power. It is useful for amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menopause and uterine tumors, as it purges what in Chinese medicine is known as stagnant blood out of the uterus. Myrrh is good for many chronic diseases, including obesity and diabetes. It helps toothache pain applied externally.

An excellent liniment for bruises, aches and sprains is made from a combination of myrrh, golden seal and cayenne, macerated in rubbing alcohol for about two weeks. Combined with peach seeds and safflower, myrrh is good for stomatitis, gingivitis and laryngitis.Myrrh is most commonly used in Chinese medicine for rheumatic, arthritic and circulatory problems. It is combined with such herbs as notoginseng, safflower stamens, Angelica sinensis, cinnamon and Salvia miltiorrhiza, usually in alcohol, and used both internally and externally.

Myrrh is used more frequently in Ayurveda, Unani medicine and Western herbalism, which ascribe to it tonic and rejuvenative properties. A related species, known as guggul in Ayurvedic medicine is considered one of the best substances for the treatment of circulatory problems, nervous system disorders and rheumatic complaints, Myrrh (Daindhava) is used in many rasayana formulas in Ayurveda, formulas which are non-toxic tonics which will strengthen anyone regardless of constitutional type. However rasayana herbs have special processing. Outside of this form myrrh is contraindicated for pregnant women or women with excessive uterine bleeding. It should not be used with evidence of kidney dysfunction or stomach pain. Best used as 5% or less of a formula.

In western pharmacy this herb is a powerful antiseptic and is a strong cleaning and healing agent, soothing the body and speeding the healing process. It is most often used in mouthwashes, gargles and tooth pastes for fighting and preventing gum disease. Myrrh is currently used in some liniments, healing salves that may be applied to abrasions and other minor skin ailments. It is also used in the production of Fernet Branca.