Myrrh: Clinical Applications
Welcome to the blog series Herb of the Month!
This week, we will be exploring the numerous benefits and clinical applications of Myrrh, a small, thorny, flowering tree. For centuries, Myrrh (Commiphora molmol) has held a remarkable place in human history, especially for its medicinal usage due to its diverse pharmacological properties.
Beneficial Chemical Constituents
It contains powerful compounds known as sesquiterpenes. Among them are furanoeudesma-1,3-diene, curzerene, and furanodienone, which have demonstrated impressive anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
Medicinal Properties and Uses
Over the years, research has revealed a multitude of therapeutic properties. It has demonstrated potential for anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, in addition to displaying antimicrobial, antiseptic, astringent, antioxidant, anthelmintic, emmenagogue, and expectorant properties. It is best used in combination with other herbs and dietary supplements to enhance synergistic and potent medicinal qualities.
📞 Schedule Your Free Discovery Call Today
Are you ready to explore natural solutions for your health? Whether it’s Myrrh or other powerful herbal remedies, we’re here to guide you on your journey to pain relief and optimal well-being! Book a FREE discovery video meeting today!
Health Benefits of Myrrh
Chronic Pain
Low Back Pain
A recent 2023 study published in Explore: The Journal of Science & Healing explored the impact of aromatherapy massage on pain and disability in patients with chronic low back pain. The study, conducted between August-December 2020 at a university hospital clinic, involved three groups:
Control Group: 30 patients who did not receive any massages.
Massage Group: 31 patients who received standard low back massages.
Aromatherapy Massage Group: 30 patients who received low back massages with Frankincense and Myrrh essential oils.
Study Methodology
Both the aromatherapy massage group and the placebo group received two sessions of low back massage per week. The aromatherapy group received massages with the essential oil combination, while the placebo group received massages with jojoba oil. The control group did not receive any massages.
Key Findings:
Pain and Disability Measures: The aromatherapy massage group showed statistically superior improvements compared to the control and placebo groups.
These findings suggest that aromatherapy massage with Frankincense and Myrrh oils can be integrated into medical treatments to relieve pain and reduce disability in individuals with chronic low back pain.
Neuropathic Pain
In another study published in the 2019 Frontiers in Pharmacology Journal, researchers investigated the effectiveness of a natural supplement called Noxiall® in treating chronic neuropathic pain. Noxiall® is a commercially available combination of N-Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), beta-caryophyllene, carnosic acid, and Myrrh.
Study Methodology
To compare the efficacy of Noxiall® with the medications gabapentin and pregabalin, the study used a mouse model of chronic constriction injury. Researchers induced neuropathic pain by performing sciatic nerve ligations in the mice, which simulates the type of neuropathic pain experienced by humans.
Treatment Groups
The study divided the mice into several treatment groups, including:
Noxiall® Group: Received Noxiall®
Gabapentin Group: Received gabapentin
Pregabalin Group: Received pregabalin
Control Group: Did not receive any treatment
Key Findings
Researchers assessed pain behaviors such as mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia and administered the treatments orally. The results indicated that all three treatments—Noxiall®, gabapentin, and pregabalin—effectively reduced both mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia.
These findings suggest that incorporating natural remedies like Noxiall® alongside conventional medications may improve the management of chronic neuropathic pain.
📞 Schedule Your Free Discovery Call Today
Are you ready to explore natural solutions for your health? Whether it’s Myrrh or other powerful herbal remedies, we’re here to guide you on your journey to pain relief and optimal well-being! Book a FREE discovery video meeting today!
Oral Health
Plaque and Gingivitis
Myrrh has long been revered for its potential benefits in promoting oral health. A recent 2020 study published in the Journal of Research in Medical and Dental Science compared the effectiveness of Commiphora Myrrh mouthwash and Chlorhexidine in reducing dental plaque and gingivitis in patients with gingivitis or mild periodontitis.
Study Methodology
The study involved 75 patients diagnosed with gingivitis. These participants were randomly assigned to two groups:
Myrrh Group: Used a mouthwash containing Commiphora Myrrh
Chlorhexidine Group: Used a mouthwash containing 0.2% Chlorhexidine
Results
Both groups showed improvement in oral hygiene after using the mouthwashes. Key findings included:
Myrrh Group: Demonstrated a reduction in the gingival index (GI) and plaque control record (PCR)
Chlorhexidine Group: Showed significantly lower PCR and GI at two weeks, but had more reported side effects, such as taste alteration and staining
While both mouthwashes were effective, the Chlorhexidine group experienced more side effects. The Myrrh-based mouthwash was found to be an effective anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis agent with fewer side effects and a high compliance rate. However, further evaluation is needed to assess the safety of long-term use of this mouthwash.
Comparative Effectiveness
In another recent 2019 study published in the Open Dentistry Journal, the potential benefits of using Myrrh for oral health were explored. Myrrh, a traditional herbal compound known for its antimicrobial properties, has been used in Arabic medicine for centuries.
Study Methodology
This randomized, double-blinded controlled clinical trial involved 12 systemically healthy subjects aged 18-30 years. The study aimed to induce experimental gingivitis and assess the effectiveness of Myrrh mouthwash in controlling plaque and gingivitis compared to a commercially available chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash.
Groups
Participants were randomly assigned to three groups:
Group 1: Used normal saline
Group 2: Used 1% Commiphora Myrrh mouthwash
Group 3: Used 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash
Results
The study found that Myrrh mouthwash showed promising results in reducing plaque build-up and gingival inflammation, comparable to the chlorhexidine mouthwash. These findings suggest that this could be a natural alternative to conventional chemical mouthwashes with potentially fewer side effects.
Final Recommendations
Here are Nancy’s Myrrh recommendations:
Some Precautions with Myrrh:
Pregnancy and Breast-feeding: Taking myrrh orally during pregnancy is considered unsafe and should be avoided. It has the potential to stimulate the uterus, leading to a miscarriage. The safety of using myrrh topically on the skin during pregnancy is not well-established, so it is recommended to avoid this use as well. Breast-feeding mothers should also avoid using myrrh due to the lack of information regarding its safety in this context.
Diabetes: Myrrh may lower blood sugar levels, which can be a concern when used with medications that also lower blood sugar. If you are using myrrh along with diabetes medications, it is important to carefully monitor your blood sugar levels.
Fever: Myrrh may potentially worsen a fever. Use it with caution in this case.
Heart Problems: Large amounts of myrrh can affect heart rate. If you have a heart condition, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider before using myrrh.
Surgery: Myrrh has the potential to impact blood glucose levels, which can interfere with blood glucose control during and after surgery. It is recommended to stop using myrrh at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Systemic Inflammation: If you have systemic inflammation, use myrrh with caution as it may exacerbate this condition.
Uterine Bleeding: Myrrh has been known to stimulate uterine bleeding, which is why some women use it to induce their menstrual periods. If you have a uterine bleeding condition, exercise caution when using myrrh as it may worsen this condition.
Remember:
There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to recommending Myrrh. Because of this, Nancy recommends Booking a 15 Minute Discovery call if you’re interested in taking this wonderful herb. It’s important to consult with a registered clinical herbalist or natural health practitioner trained in clinical herbalism for more resistant and deeper set health issues. They will be able to give a more tailored suggested serving and daily frequency based on your age, gender, body weight, and any present medical conditions.
Remember to join us each month as we explore the history, personality, clinical application, and more of Nancy’s favorite plants. Get a snippet of the properties and practical uses of these herbs and how they supported the health of our ancestors as well as how they can support us in our present day.
Other Resources:
Commiphora myrrh: a phytochemical and pharmacological update | Components, therapeutic value and uses of myrrh
Welcome to the blog series Herb of the Month!
This week, we will be exploring the numerous benefits and clinical applications of Myrrh, a small, thorny, flowering tree. For centuries, Myrrh (Commiphora molmol) has held a remarkable place in human history, especially for its medicinal usage due to its diverse pharmacological properties.
Beneficial Chemical Constituents
It contains powerful compounds known as sesquiterpenes. Among them are furanoeudesma-1,3-diene, curzerene, and furanodienone, which have demonstrated impressive anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
Medicinal Properties and Uses
Over the years, research has revealed a multitude of therapeutic properties. It has demonstrated potential for anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, in addition to displaying antimicrobial, antiseptic, astringent, antioxidant, anthelmintic, emmenagogue, and expectorant properties. It is best used in combination with other herbs and dietary supplements to enhance synergistic and potent medicinal qualities.
📞 Schedule Your Free Discovery Call Today
Are you ready to explore natural solutions for your health? Whether it’s Myrrh or other powerful herbal remedies, we’re here to guide you on your journey to pain relief and optimal well-being! Book a FREE discovery video meeting today!
Health Benefits of Myrrh
Chronic Pain
Low Back Pain
A recent 2023 study published in Explore: The Journal of Science & Healing explored the impact of aromatherapy massage on pain and disability in patients with chronic low back pain. The study, conducted between August-December 2020 at a university hospital clinic, involved three groups:
Control Group: 30 patients who did not receive any massages.
Massage Group: 31 patients who received standard low back massages.
Aromatherapy Massage Group: 30 patients who received low back massages with Frankincense and Myrrh essential oils.
Study Methodology
Both the aromatherapy massage group and the placebo group received two sessions of low back massage per week. The aromatherapy group received massages with the essential oil combination, while the placebo group received massages with jojoba oil. The control group did not receive any massages.
Key Findings:
Pain and Disability Measures: The aromatherapy massage group showed statistically superior improvements compared to the control and placebo groups.
These findings suggest that aromatherapy massage with Frankincense and Myrrh oils can be integrated into medical treatments to relieve pain and reduce disability in individuals with chronic low back pain.
Neuropathic Pain
In another study published in the 2019 Frontiers in Pharmacology Journal, researchers investigated the effectiveness of a natural supplement called Noxiall® in treating chronic neuropathic pain. Noxiall® is a commercially available combination of N-Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), beta-caryophyllene, carnosic acid, and Myrrh.
Study Methodology
To compare the efficacy of Noxiall® with the medications gabapentin and pregabalin, the study used a mouse model of chronic constriction injury. Researchers induced neuropathic pain by performing sciatic nerve ligations in the mice, which simulates the type of neuropathic pain experienced by humans.
Treatment Groups
The study divided the mice into several treatment groups, including:
Noxiall® Group: Received Noxiall®
Gabapentin Group: Received gabapentin
Pregabalin Group: Received pregabalin
Control Group: Did not receive any treatment
Key Findings
Researchers assessed pain behaviors such as mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia and administered the treatments orally. The results indicated that all three treatments—Noxiall®, gabapentin, and pregabalin—effectively reduced both mechanical allodynia and thermal hyperalgesia.
These findings suggest that incorporating natural remedies like Noxiall® alongside conventional medications may improve the management of chronic neuropathic pain.
📞 Schedule Your Free Discovery Call Today
Are you ready to explore natural solutions for your health? Whether it’s Myrrh or other powerful herbal remedies, we’re here to guide you on your journey to pain relief and optimal well-being! Book a FREE discovery video meeting today!
Oral Health
Plaque and Gingivitis
Myrrh has long been revered for its potential benefits in promoting oral health. A recent 2020 study published in the Journal of Research in Medical and Dental Science compared the effectiveness of Commiphora Myrrh mouthwash and Chlorhexidine in reducing dental plaque and gingivitis in patients with gingivitis or mild periodontitis.
Study Methodology
The study involved 75 patients diagnosed with gingivitis. These participants were randomly assigned to two groups:
Myrrh Group: Used a mouthwash containing Commiphora Myrrh
Chlorhexidine Group: Used a mouthwash containing 0.2% Chlorhexidine
Results
Both groups showed improvement in oral hygiene after using the mouthwashes. Key findings included:
Myrrh Group: Demonstrated a reduction in the gingival index (GI) and plaque control record (PCR)
Chlorhexidine Group: Showed significantly lower PCR and GI at two weeks, but had more reported side effects, such as taste alteration and staining
While both mouthwashes were effective, the Chlorhexidine group experienced more side effects. The Myrrh-based mouthwash was found to be an effective anti-plaque and anti-gingivitis agent with fewer side effects and a high compliance rate. However, further evaluation is needed to assess the safety of long-term use of this mouthwash.
Comparative Effectiveness
In another recent 2019 study published in the Open Dentistry Journal, the potential benefits of using Myrrh for oral health were explored. Myrrh, a traditional herbal compound known for its antimicrobial properties, has been used in Arabic medicine for centuries.
Study Methodology
This randomized, double-blinded controlled clinical trial involved 12 systemically healthy subjects aged 18-30 years. The study aimed to induce experimental gingivitis and assess the effectiveness of Myrrh mouthwash in controlling plaque and gingivitis compared to a commercially available chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash.
Groups
Participants were randomly assigned to three groups:
Group 1: Used normal saline
Group 2: Used 1% Commiphora Myrrh mouthwash
Group 3: Used 0.2% chlorhexidine gluconate mouthwash
Results
The study found that Myrrh mouthwash showed promising results in reducing plaque build-up and gingival inflammation, comparable to the chlorhexidine mouthwash.These findings suggest that this could be a natural alternative to conventional chemical mouthwashes with potentially fewer side effects.
Final Recommendations
Here are Nancy’s Myrrh recommendations:
Some Precautions with Myrrh:
Pregnancy and Breast-feeding: Taking myrrh orally during pregnancy is considered unsafe and should be avoided. It has the potential to stimulate the uterus, leading to a miscarriage. The safety of using myrrh topically on the skin during pregnancy is not well-established, so it is recommended to avoid this use as well. Breast-feeding mothers should also avoid using myrrh due to the lack of information regarding its safety in this context.
Diabetes: Myrrh may lower blood sugar levels, which can be a concern when used with medications that also lower blood sugar. If you are using myrrh along with diabetes medications, it is important to carefully monitor your blood sugar levels.
Fever: Myrrh may potentially worsen a fever. Use it with caution in this case.
Heart Problems: Large amounts of myrrh can affect heart rate. If you have a heart condition, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider before using myrrh.
Surgery: Myrrh has the potential to impact blood glucose levels, which can interfere with blood glucose control during and after surgery. It is recommended to stop using myrrh at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Systemic Inflammation: If you have systemic inflammation, use myrrh with caution as it may exacerbate this condition.
Uterine Bleeding: Myrrh has been known to stimulate uterine bleeding, which is why some women use it to induce their menstrual periods. If you have a uterine bleeding condition, exercise caution when using myrrh as it may worsen this condition.
Remember:
There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to recommending Myrrh. Because of this, Nancy recommends Booking a 15 Minute Discovery call if you’re interested in taking this wonderful herb. It’s important to consult with a registered clinical herbalist or natural health practitioner trained in clinical herbalism for more resistant and deeper set health issues. They will be able to give a more tailored suggested serving and daily frequency based on your age, gender, body weight, and any present medical conditions.
Remember to join us each month as we explore the history, personality, clinical application, and more of Nancy’s favorite plants. Get a snippet of the properties and practical uses of these herbs and how they supported the health of our ancestors as well as how they can support us in our present day.
Other Resources:
Commiphora myrrh: a phytochemical and pharmacological update | Components, therapeutic value and uses of myrrh