What to know about Commiphora myrrha (myrrh) before using it medicinally

Commiphora myrrha, commonly known as myrrh, is a highly valued herb in traditional medicine, prized for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties that work to alleviate a range of health issues, from soothing wounds and skin irritations to relieving digestive problems and pain.

This aromatic shrub or tree, native to the Arabian Peninsula and parts of Africa and Asia, is relatively low-maintenance and can thrive in dry, alkaline soils, making it a popular choice for cultivation in regions with harsh climates. Botanically, myrrh is characterized by its resinous, woody trunk and branches, which yield the fragrant resin that gives the herb its distinctive scent and medicinal properties.

With a history dating back thousands of years, myrrh has been highly valued in ancient civilizations, including Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where it was used not only for medicinal purposes but also as a fragrance, incense, and even currency.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Commiphora myrrha.

What are the medicinal properties of Commiphora myrrha?

Commiphora myrrha helps with wound healing, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. It is used to treat respiratory issues, skin conditions, and digestive problems. Myrrh is also used in traditional medicine for its analgesic and antitumor effects.

The active constituents of Commiphora myrrha include myrrhone, sesquiterpenes, and phenolic compounds, which give it its medicinal properties. These compounds have been shown to exhibit antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant activities. Myrrhone is also responsible for its analgesic and antitumor effects.

The parts of the plant most used for medicinal purposes are the resin and the oleoresin, which are obtained from the bark of the tree. The resin is used in traditional medicine for its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, while the oleoresin is used as an anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial agent.

Possible side effects of Commiphora myrrha include allergic reactions, skin irritation, and gastrointestinal problems when used in large quantities or for extended periods. It may also interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes medications.

Common precautions to take when using Commiphora myrrha medicinally include consulting with a healthcare professional before use, especially if taking medications or with pre-existing medical conditions. It is also essential to use high-quality, pure myrrh products and to follow recommended dosages to avoid adverse effects.

What are the horticulural aspects of Commiphora myrrha?

Commiphora myrrha grow well in dry, subtropical climates with full sun and well-draining soil. Temperature range is between 20-30°C (68-86°F), and annual rainfall is between 200-400 mm (7.9-15.7 in). Soil pH should be between 6.0-8.0.

Plant Commiphora myrrha in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0-8.0. Water sparingly, allowing the top 2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 in) of soil to dry out between waterings. Plant at the same depth as it was in the pot, and water thoroughly after planting.

Commiphora myrrha bark should be harvested after 5-7 years of growth, when the tree is around 2-3 meters (6.6-9.8 ft) tall. Harvest bark pieces of around 1-2 cm (0.4-0.8 in) in diameter, and 10-20 cm (3.9-7.9 in) in length, leaving 2-3 cm (0.8-1.2 in) of sapwood intact.

Commiphora myrrha is susceptible to fungal infections such as Aspergillus and Penicillium, while root-knot nematodes can also affect the plant's growth. Regular monitoring and sanitation practices can help prevent infestations, and chemical controls may be necessary to manage severe outbreaks.

What are the botanical aspects of Commiphora myrrha?

Commiphora myrrha is a small, evergreen tree or shrub that grows up to 10 meters in height, with a broad, rounded crown and a straight, cylindrical trunk. It has smooth, grey bark and dark green, linear leaves that are 1-2 cm long and arranged oppositely. The leaves are thin, fleshy, and fragrant.

Commiphora myrrha belongs to the Burseraceae family and is classified as follows: kingdom Plantae, phylum Tracheophyta, class Magnoliopsida, order Sapindales, family Burseraceae, genus Commiphora, and species C. myrrha. It is a member of the Commiphora genus, which consists of over 180 species. The genus is distributed across tropical and subtropical regions of the world.

There are several variants of Commiphora myrrha, including the 'Commiphora myrrha var. myrrha', which is the typical species, and 'Commiphora myrrha var. hortiorum', which is considered a cultivated variety. Other variants may be distinguished based on their geographical distribution, leaf shape, or bark texture.

Commiphora myrrha is native to the Middle East and North Africa, but has been naturalized in other parts of the world, including the Mediterranean region. It typically grows in dry, sandy, and rocky areas, often near sea level. The plant is commonly found in countries such as Somalia, Yemen, and Saudi Arabia.

The life cycle of Commiphora myrrha begins with seed germination, which occurs in the spring. The seeds germinate into seedlings, which grow into saplings and eventually mature into trees. The trees produce flowers in the summer, which are followed by the production of resin. The resin is collected from the trunks and branches of the trees and is used as the dried, resinous exudate known as myrrh.

What are the historical aspects of Commiphora myrrha?

Commiphora myrrha is a resinous plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine, perfumery, and spiritual practices. Myrrh has been used to treat various ailments, including skin conditions, wounds, and respiratory issues. Its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties made it a popular ingredient in ancient remedies.

Myrrh has mythological connections to ancient Egyptian and Greek cultures, where it was considered a sacred substance. In Egyptian mythology, myrrh was associated with the goddess Isis, while in Greek mythology, it was linked to the hero Hercules. Myrrh was said to have been used to embalm the bodies of deceased pharaohs and heroes.

In various cultures, myrrh has been imbued with symbolic meanings. In ancient Egypt, it represented eternal life and regeneration. In Christianity, myrrh is associated with the gift of myrrh presented to Jesus at his birth. In some cultures, myrrh is seen as a symbol of love, grief, and spirituality.

Historical texts, such as the Ebers Papyrus and the Edwin Smith Papyrus, provide evidence of myrrh's use in ancient Egyptian medicine. The Greek physician Dioscorides described myrrh as a treatment for various ailments in his book "De Materia Medica". The Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder also wrote about myrrh's medicinal properties.

Myrrh has been depicted in various historical artifacts, including ancient Egyptian tomb paintings and Greek pottery. The Lycurgus Cup, a Roman glass cup, features a design that includes myrrh as a symbol of love and devotion. The use of myrrh in ancient rituals and ceremonies is also illustrated in the reliefs of the temple of Isis in Philae, Egypt.