Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha)
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) is a member of the Burseraceae family, native to East Africa, Sudan, and Somalia. Traditionally, its resin, bark, and wood have been used for powders, decoctions, and poultices.
This herb is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory, astringent, and antispasmodic actions, and has a long history of use in african traditional medicine, ayurvedic medicine, and traditional chinese medicine.
Quick Facts / Key Information
| Common Name | Myrrh |
|---|---|
| Scientific Name | Commiphora myrrha |
| Plant Family | Burseraceae |
| Genus | Commiphora |
| Species | myrrha |
| Native Range | East Africa, Sudan, Somalia |
| Plant Parts Used | Resin, Bark, Wood |
| Primary Medicinal Actions | Anti-Inflammatory, Astringent, Antispasmodic |
| Primary Traditional Systems | African Traditional Medicine, Ayurvedic Medicine, Traditional Chinese Medicine |
| Historical Preparation Methods | Powder, Decoction, Poultice |
Botanical Identity
- Scientific Name
- Commiphora myrrha
- Common Name
- Myrrh
- Synonyms / Alternative Names
- Olibanum, Frankincense, Commiphora Myrrha
- Plant Family
- Burseraceae
- Genus
- Commiphora
Botanical Description
- Growth Habit
- Perennial herbaceous plant.
- Height
- It typically reaches a height of 2 to 5 meters.
- Leaves
- Smooth, thick, leathery leaves with upper surface a deep reddish-brown and lower surface a lighter green, exhibiting prominent stomatal bands.
- Flowers
- Inflorescences are solitary, actinomorphic flowers with five greenish-yellow petals and three sepals, bearing stamens in multiples of three and a superior ovary with two carpels.
- Stems
- Woody, aromatic, branching in a dichotomous pattern, with a rough, fissured surface and a distinctive reddish-brown coloration.
Traditional Uses / Historical Use
Traditional Systems
- African Traditional Medicine
- Ayurvedic Medicine
- Traditional Chinese Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods
- Powder
- Decoction
- Poultice
- Infusion
Medicinal Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- In herbal literature, noted as a mild anti-inflammatory, in topical or internal use contexts.
- Astringent
- As described in traditional systems, a calming astringent, for surface-level applications.
- Antispasmodic
- Traditionally described as a soothing antispasmodic, for tension-related applications.
- Carminative
- Commonly referenced as a cooling carminative, in relation to gastrointestinal comfort.
Active Compounds
- Terpenoid
- A large class of naturally occurring compounds derived from isoprene units.
- Tannin
- High-molecular-weight phenolic compounds found in many plant species.
- Phenolic Acid
- Naturally occurring phenolic compounds present in many plant species.
- Essential Oil
- A complex mixture of volatile compounds produced by aromatic plant tissues.
Modern Research Overview
Scientific research related to this plant is ongoing. This section will be expanded in the future to include summaries of phytochemical studies, laboratory research, and other relevant scientific literature as it becomes available.
Safety & Contraindications
- General Precautions
- General precautions have been noted regarding the use of this herb.
- Contraindications
- Contraindications for this herb are not clearly established in available sources.
- Allergies
- Reports of allergic reactions to this herb are not well documented in available sources.
- Drug Interactions
- Available information regarding interactions with pharmaceutical drugs is limited.
- Toxicity
- Toxic effects associated with this herb have not been well documented.
- Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
- Information addressing pregnancy and breastfeeding-related safety for this herb is limited.
Preparation & Usage Methods
- Infusion
- Plant material is steeped in hot water to extract water-soluble compounds.
- Decoction
- Plant parts are gently boiled in water to release soluble constituents.
- Poultice
- A topical preparation made by applying softened plant material externally.
- Powder
- A preparation created by pulverizing dried plant material.
- Tincture
- A preparation involving soaking plant parts in alcohol for extended extraction.
Growing, Harvesting & Storage
Growing / Cultivation
- Soil
- Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
- Sunlight
- Thrives in partial sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
- Watering
- Prefers well-balanced moisture levels. Tolerates periodic dry conditions.
Medical Disclaimer
The information provided on this page is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using any herb for medicinal purposes.