Myrrh(Western Herb)
LATIN NAME: Commiphora molmol It is also known as Mukkul, Mo Yoa, and Bola. What is myrrh? It is the resin that is naturally oozed from the bark of the shrub or small tree. The resin can also be collected by making incisions into the bark to encourage the resin flow, but the naturally exuded resin is said to be of high quality. A pale yellow oil drips to form teardrop-shaped nuggets of myrrh, which turn into reddish-brown crystals that are semi-transparent, oil, and highly aromatic. The resin is then dried even further and then distilled for oil or ground into powdered for use as a healing herb. The herb grows in the Middle East, Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. In the ancient Middle East the herb was mostly used as an analgesic. The Romans used it to treat infections of the eye and mouth, the well-known Greek physician Hippocrates praised the herb for its use as a balm for sores, and the Hebrews used it as a painkiller. In Christ’s day, the resin of both myrrh and frankincense was some of the most precious commodities bought and sold in the region. It was one of the gifts that was given to the baby Jesus by one of the three kings. Still today, it is a well-known fragrance in incense and perfumes. Here are some of the benefits. Take internally for: * sinusitis * asthma * bronchitis * chronic coughs * colds and flu * boils * reducing cholesterol levels Use as a gargle or mouthwash: * canker sore * tonsillitis * sore throat Use externally for: * cuts and scrapes * wounds and abrasions * abscesses and boils * weeping eczema * herpes * skin inflammation * athlete’s foot PREPARATIONS: It is available as a powdered herb, tincture, essential oil, extracts, and bulk herb. It is used commercially in mouthwashes and toothpastes. It can also be used as an infusion. Parts used: Oleo-gum-resin Collection: A hardened resin that has oozed from the bark is collected. Resin is also collected by making incisions in the bark to encourage the resin flow. The naturally exuded resin is said to be of higher quality. Constituents: Volatile oils, resins, gums, sterols Actions: Antiseptic, astringent, alternative, analgesic, antispasmodic, expectorant, anti-microbial, vulnerary, tonic, anti-catarrhal, emmenagogue, carminative, and stimulate. Combinations: It combines well with Echinacea for infections and as a mouthwash for ulcers and similar problems. It can be combined with distilled Witch Hazel for external use. The perfume is smoky, musky, slightly acrid and blends well with lavender, patchouli, sandalwood, frankincense, benzoic, and galbanum. SAFETY AND SIDE EFFECTS: * Do not use during pregnancy. PLEASE NOTE - The essential oil cannot be taken internally SPECIAL INFORMATION: * Veterinarians use myrrh-based ointments to treat some types of wounds in animals, especially horses.
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