Myrrh essential oil was and still is used by many cultures around the world. As a Christian I have read about Myrrh in the Bible in various places. In fact, it is mentioned 152 times in the Bible. It was one of the gifts that the wise men gave to the Messiah. The Jews used Myrrh as part of their holy anointing oils. Not only was Myrrh oil used at the birth of Christ but also at his death we read that Nicodemus brought a bag of myrrh and aloes to be used to embalm Jesus. When Esther was undergoing her beautification period, they would use Myrrh oil. So what exactly makes this tree resin so valuable? Let’s have a look at this ancient oil and its uses and benefits.
1. Skincare
In Ancient Egypt Myrrh oil was used by the rich as part of their skincare. We read in the Bible in the book of Esther that Myrrh was one of the oils used in the girls’ beautification process, that took about 12 months, before they met king Xerxes. Myrrh oil helps to moisturize the skin and to prevent aging. As I am aging I am including Myrrh oil in my skincare routine more and more.
This ability of Myrrh to help to moisturize the skin is why it is helpful in balms for chapped or cracked skin. If you struggle with dehydrated skin, then Myrrh is a good oil to use.
Please be careful though if you have sensitive skin or have an inflammatory skin condition. Use a patch test first. Even if there is no reaction I would use only a 0.5 or 1% blend.
2. Oral health
Some mouth rinses and natural oral products contain myrrh. Myrrh has antibacterial and anti inflammatory properties which is why it is useful for gingivitis and mouth ulcers. It is also helpful for the following:
Toothache
Gums health
Halitosis
3. Meditation and prayer
Great for meditation and prayer. Because it is such a grounding oil it can be helpful to get to a place of inner calmness and peace. Diffuse a couple of drops of Myrrh oil whilst you are reading your bible or having some quiet time.
It was used for embalming in ancient times.
The Hebrews would drink myrrh wine to prepare themselves for religious ceremonies.
Myrrh is familiar to many as it is one of the traditional resinous gifts mentioned in t… [More]
4. Purposeful diffusion
Myrrh is a good choice for diffuser blends especially around Christmas time.
On its own smells a bit like a rough diamond to me. I prefer it blended with another oil.
My favorite blend is…. yes you have guessed it…. Frankincense and Myrrh.
5. Emotionally
It is a grounding oil and it relaxes the mind.
Diffuse Myrrh oil with some oils from the flower family to help get rid of negative emotions.
For a bit more of a refreshing uplifting fragrance I would mix Myrrh oil with the following oils:
Bergamot
Lemon
Patchoulli
Take your essential oils everywhere with Plant Therapy’s Portable Diffuser with Travel … [More]
6. Antibacterial and anti fungal
Before modern medicine and wound care myrrh was used as wound care and to prevent infection.
Today we can still use myrrh oil for athlete’s foot. The antibacterial properties makes it helpful for treating acne.
Myrrh essential oil
Botanical name: Commiphora myrrha
Method of extraction: Distilled from the Myrrh resin
Part of the plant used : resin
Aroma: woody and rich. A bit spicy and smokey
Color : Deep caramel yellow
Consistency : Medium
Fragrance family: Balsamic
Safety information:
Myrrh oil can be fetotoxic which means it can damage the developing fetus.
Do not use while pregnant or breastfeeding
Myrrh can lower your blood sugar so if you are diabetic this is not the oil for you.
If you are on anticoagulants then I would also stay clear from using Myrrh oil because of the possibility of drug interaction.
General Safety Information about essential oils
Always use good quality essential oils, preferably organic. One of my favorite companies where I personally get a lot of my oils from is Plant Therapy.
Do not take essential oils internally or apply essential oils undiluted on the skin.
Always dilute essential oils with a carrier oil. Read more about carrier oils in this article here.
Dilute according to body mass. For children you can use a 1 % dilution and for adults 5 %
Pregnant women have to consult with a qualified aromatherapist and or midwife and doctor before using essential oils, especially topically.
If you have liver damage, cancer, suffers from epilepsy or other medical problems and take medicine on a regular basis then you have to use essential oils under the guidance of a trained aromatherapist.
Check whether the essential oil of your choice is safe to use around your pets. Here is a list of essential oils safety for dogs.
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