Myrrh

Appearance and Location

Myrrh, also known as “Bola,” “Mo Yao,” “Gum Myrrh,” or “African Myrrh,” is derived from the bark of trees belonging to the Commiphora species in the Burseraceae family. The Burseraceae family consists of approximately 19 genera and an impressive range of 775-860 species, including Commiphora molmol (otherwise known as Myrrh). When these trees are gently incised, they release a sap-like resin that possesses remarkable properties and has been prized for centuries for its various uses and benefits.

The scientific name of Myrrh, Commiphora, has a fascinating origin. It is derived from the Greek words ‘commi‘ meaning ‘embalming gum‘ and ‘phoros‘ representing ‘bearing,’ referencing the resin produced by these trees. The Somali epithet ‘molmol‘ translates to ‘very bitter,’ emphasizing the intense bitterness of myrrh. Additionally, the word ‘myrrh‘ stems from the Arabic term ‘murr,’ meaning ‘bitter,’ reflecting its enduring aromatic legacy and historical associations.

Myrrh comes in two main varieties: herabol and bisabol. Herabol myrrh is derived from the Commiphora myrrha species found in Ethiopia, Arabia, and Somalia, while bisabol myrrh originates from Commiphora erythraea, a visually similar Arabian species. Thriving amidst parched rocky hills, Myrrh trees can reach heights of up to 3 meters (9 feet). The knotty shrubs bear small, often irregular, trifoliate leaves and yellowish-orange, paniculate inflorescences that emerge during the rainy season. Following the flowers, red berries ripen, enhancing the tree’s allure. The Myrrh’s side branches feature spiny thorns, which lend the plant a slightly menacing appearance.

Functions and Properties Throughout History

For thousands of years, Myrrh has held a remarkable place in human history. Its storied past, spanning multiple mythologies and medical texts, takes us on a captivating journey through time:

Smyrna’s Mythological Transformation:
Greek mythology offers a captivating story surrounding Myrrh, with the enchanting tale of Smyrna. Supposedly under the spell of Aphrodite, Smyrna fell in love with and seduced her father, Cinyras, the priest and king of Cyprus. In dire circumstances, Smyrna beseeched the gods for help and was transformed into a Myrrh tree, shedding tears of bitter resin. Nine months later, she gave birth to Adonis, with the name Smyrna itself representing Myrrh in Greek.
The Biblical Significance:
The Bible also mentions Myrrh on multiple occasions, including the birth of Jesus. The Three Wise Men from the East presented the infant with gifts, among them being Myrrh. Each gift carried a symbolic meaning: gold for kingship, frankincense for holiness, and Myrrh representing suffering. Notably, during his crucifixion, Jesus was offered wine infused with Myrrh, a customary anesthetic of the time, which he declined.
Traditional Medicinal Usage:
The medicinal use of Myrrh traces back thousands of years, with the earliest documented antimicrobial use by the Sumerians around 1100 BC to treat teeth infections and intestinal worms. The Egyptians also employed Myrrh in embalming practices, showcasing its diverse applications throughout history. Traditional healing systems, such as Unani medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, consider Myrrh gums as valuable antiseptic, astringent, anthelmintic, carminative, emmenagogue, expectorant, and stomachic remedies. These gums are often combined with other drugs to prevent epidemic diseases, applied topically on gouty and painful joints, and used for wound healing.
The therapeutic potential of Myrrh extends beyond infections and inflammations though. Its use has been observed to alleviate various types of aches, including fever-associated aches, joint aches, lower back aches, muscle aches, headaches, and dysmenorrhea. In ancient Chinese medicine, Myrrh played a significant role in treating syphilis, leprosy, rheumatism, and other diseases. It was also used in Somalia and Ethiopia as a traditional remedy for stomach aches.
Modern Medicinal Usage:
Apart from its historical significance and traditional uses, Myrrh has garnered attention in modern medicine due to its diverse pharmacological properties. Terpenoids found in Myrrh have demonstrated antimicrobial, hypoglycemic, anesthetic, cytotoxic, and microbicidal effects. Furthermore, Myrrh resin has been marketed as an anti-parasitic agent in Egypt and has been approved for use in managing mild inflammation of the pharyngeal and oral mucosa by organizations like the European Commission.
One of the primary applications of Myrrh in Western pharmacy lies in its ability to serve as a powerful antiseptic in oral care. It is commonly found in mouthwashes, gargles, and toothpaste due to its proven efficacy in preventing and treating gum disease. By harnessing Myrrh’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, these products aid in promoting healthy gums and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Aside from its role in maintaining oral health, Myrrh also demonstrates its effectiveness in the realm of skincare. It is frequently incorporated into liniments and healing salves to address minor skin ailments, such as abrasions and cuts. By applying Myrrh topically, its natural healing properties can aid in soothing and promoting the faster healing of these superficial wounds. Additionally, its aromatic scent adds a pleasant touch to skincare products, enhancing the overall experience.
Myrrh’s Influence in the Production of Fernet Branca:
Beyond its traditional and modern medicinal uses, Myrrh has found its way into the production of Fernet Branca, a popular herbal liqueur. Known for its bitter taste and distinct flavor profile, Fernet Branca owes a part of its unique character to the inclusion of Myrrh as one of its key ingredients. This highlights the versatility of Myrrh, showcasing its significance beyond the realm of healthcare and into the world of indulgence and culinary delight.

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.

Resources:

Appearance and Location

The scientific name of myrrh, Commiphora, has a fascinating origin. It is derived from the Greek words ‘commi‘ meaning ‘embalming gum‘ and ‘phoros‘ representing ‘bearing,’ referencing the resin produced by these trees. The Somali epithet ‘molmol‘ translates to ‘very bitter,’ emphasizing the intense bitterness of myrrh. Additionally, the word ‘myrrh‘ stems from the Arabic term ‘murr,’ meaning ‘bitter,’ reflecting its enduring aromatic legacy and historical associations.

Myrrh comes in two main varieties: herabol and bisabol. Herabol myrrh is derived from the Commiphora myrrha species found in Ethiopia, Arabia, and Somalia, while bisabol myrrh originates from Commiphora erythraea, a visually similar Arabian species. Thriving amidst parched rocky hills, Myrrh trees can reach heights of up to 3 meters (9 feet). The knotty shrubs bear small, often irregular, trifoliate leaves and yellowish-orange, paniculate inflorescences that emerge during the rainy season. Following the flowers, red berries ripen, enhancing the tree’s allure. The myrrh’s side branches feature spiny thorns, which lend the plant a slightly menacing appearance.

Functions and Properties
Throughout History

For thousands of years, Myrrh has held a remarkable place in human history. Its storied past, spanning multiple mythologies and medical texts, takes us on a captivating journey through time:

Smyrna’s Mythological Transformation:
Greek mythology offers a captivating story surrounding Myrrh, with the enchanting tale of Smyrna. Supposedly under the spell of Aphrodite, Smyrna fell in love with and seduced her father, Cinyras, the priest and king of Cyprus. In dire circumstances, Smyrna beseeched the gods for help and was transformed into a Myrrh tree, shedding tears of bitter resin. Nine months later, she gave birth to Adonis, with the name Smyrna itself representing Myrrh in Greek.
The Biblical Significance:
The Bible also mentions Myrrh on multiple occasions, including the birth of Jesus. The Three Wise Men from the East presented the infant with gifts, among them being Myrrh. Each gift carried a symbolic meaning: gold for kingship, frankincense for holiness, and Myrrh representing suffering. Notably, during his crucifixion, Jesus was offered wine infused with Myrrh, a customary anesthetic of the time, which he declined.
Traditional Medicinal Usage:
The medicinal use of Myrrh traces back thousands of years, with the earliest documented antimicrobial use by the Sumerians around 1100 BC to treat teeth infections and intestinal worms. The Egyptians also employed Myrrh in embalming practices, showcasing its diverse applications throughout history. Traditional healing systems, such as Unani medicine and Ayurvedic medicine, consider Myrrh gums as valuable antiseptic, astringent, anthelmintic, carminative, emmenagogue, expectorant, and stomachic remedies. These gums are often combined with other drugs to prevent epidemic diseases, applied topically on gouty and painful joints, and used for wound healing.
The therapeutic potential of Myrrh extends beyond infections and inflammations though. Its use has been observed to alleviate various types of aches, including fever-associated aches, joint aches, lower back aches, muscle aches, headaches, and dysmenorrhea. In ancient Chinese medicine, Myrrh played a significant role in treating syphilis, leprosy, rheumatism, and other diseases. It was also used in Somalia and Ethiopia as a traditional remedy for stomach aches.
Modern Medicinal Usage:
Apart from its historical significance and traditional uses, Myrrh has garnered attention in modern medicine due to its diverse pharmacological properties. Terpenoids found in Myrrh have demonstrated antimicrobial, hypoglycemic, anesthetic, cytotoxic, and microbicidal effects. Furthermore, Myrrh resin has been marketed as an anti-parasitic agent in Egypt and has been approved for use in managing mild inflammation of the pharyngeal and oral mucosa by organizations like the European Commission.
One of the primary applications of Myrrh in Western pharmacy lies in its ability to serve as a powerful antiseptic in oral care. It is commonly found in mouthwashes, gargles, and toothpaste due to its proven efficacy in preventing and treating gum disease. By harnessing Myrrh’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, these products aid in promoting healthy gums and maintaining good oral hygiene.
Aside from its role in maintaining oral health, Myrrh also demonstrates its effectiveness in the realm of skincare. It is frequently incorporated into liniments and healing salves to address minor skin ailments, such as abrasions and cuts. By applying Myrrh topically, its natural healing properties can aid in soothing and promoting the faster healing of these superficial wounds. Additionally, its aromatic scent adds a pleasant touch to skincare products, enhancing the overall experience.
Myrrh’s Influence in the Production of Fernet Branca:
Beyond its traditional and modern medicinal uses, Myrrh has found its way into the production of Fernet Branca, a popular herbal liqueur. Known for its bitter taste and distinct flavor profile, Fernet Branca owes a part of its unique character to the inclusion of Myrrh as one of its key ingredients. This highlights the versatility of Myrrh, showcasing its significance beyond the realm of healthcare and into the world of indulgence and culinary delight.

Resources: