Single Oil Look: Myrrh

Many associate the amber colored gum myrrh Commiphora molmol with the ancient Egyptians and their mummification process. Used by many ancient peoples to treat various conditions, myrrh is also highly aromatic. This aromatic nature has made it particularly useful in incense blends and natural perfumes. When the stem of the myrrh plant is cut it oozes a pale yellow liquid. As it dries (usually on the ground) it becomes ever thicker until it is brown hard lumps much like amber. Once cleaned of dirt, sticks and other matter, raw myrrh is sold in small chunks. These can be burned as incense over a charcoal disk or can be dissolved in oil or alcohol to create a tincture. To render in oil, myrrh and an oil of your choice should be heated gently until dissolved. It then should be allowed to steep in a dark, cool place for about a week prior to use.

Essential oil of myrrh is a thick, gummy consistency with the look of honey. It has a wonderful deep scent that blends well with other resins such as frankincense along with florals and citrus’s. Try blending myrrh with orange or ylang ylang for a sensual massage oil. Chunks of myrrh resin can also be soaked in an essential oil preparation and then transferred to a bowl or pomander to release its scent throughout ones home. When the scent has dissipated, either reinfuse with more essential oil or use the myrrh as incense.

A number of similar treatments have been derived from myrrh. One frequently mentioned one is for use to heal mouth complaints such as ulcers and sore throats. This is done by creating a gargle using dissolved myrrh in water. It has also been long used for external wound care. Myrrh has shown antifungal, antiseptic and ciculatory stimulation attributes. It should be avoided by those who are pregnant as it is said to stimulate the uterus.

New Suite101 Anthology on Aromatherapy to Come!
Please be on the look out for a new Suite101 Anthology on Aromatherapy. This book will benefit anyone wishing to learn the holistic healing qualities of essential oils. It will also help to put to rest some of the myths and misconceptions surrounding Aromatherapy. If you don’t know the difference between Aromatherapy and Aromacology then this will be a must read book. Stay tuned to this topics welcome page for the latest regarding this new book.

-MAM
www.anakee.com

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