An oleoresin extracted from the sapwood of the Commiphora myrrha tree, myrrh holds a timeless place in human history, impacting everything from ceremonies to religions and folk wellness practices. Myrrh:
- Supplements contain the dried resin (gum) of the tree.
- Is available as ingestible capsules and liquid extracts.
- Can also be found in its aromatic essential oil form.
What is Myrrh?
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) is a timeless plant that holds a special place in human history. Native to the Middle East and eastern Africa, this thorny tree-like shrub can reach a height of 10 feet, and thrives in arid soil. Its treasure lies within its sapwood, which leaks a viscous pale yellow oleoresin through natural fissures. Upon drying, this oleoresin hardens into red-brown resin. The resin is also called myrrh tears, from the story of Myrrha in Greek mythology who was turned into a myrrh tree.
Used for over 1,000 years, myrrh can be found as incense, in Egyptian religious rituals and embalming, and was once used as a holy anointing oil for high priests and kings. Ever the subject of faith, it is even said that myrrh was one of the three gifts of the magi presented to Jesus in the manger. The word “myrrh” comes from the Arabic word “mur,” meaning “bitter” for the taste and signature warm, earthy-balsamic aroma of the resin.
Myrrh Supplements
Myrrh has been used in traditional Asian herbal wellness practices to promote wellness, while Ayurveda praised its rejuvenating properties.** Today, myrrh can often be found in mouthwashes and toothpastes, as well as folk salves and tinctures for a number of applications.
While more commonly found in its essential oil form, myrrh is also widely available as ingestible supplements and liquid extracts. In these supplements, myrrh resin may also be called myrrh gum.
Myrrh Essential Oil
Myrrh resin is extracted manually by making deep scores into the sapwood of a healthy tree, usually during the summer months. Myrrh essential oil is steam distilled from this resin, and is one of the thicker oils in aromatherapy.
In aromatherapy, myrrh oil has a warm, earthy, balsamic aroma, and is a sublimely spiritual oil, awakening and transcendental for many as it opens doorways to inner contemplation. Calming and balancing, myrrh oil can rejuvenate the spiritual senses.
Piping Rock’s 100% pure Myrrh Oil is available in 1/2 oz. & 2 oz. bottles.
Directions for Use
Always consult with your trusted healthcare provider prior to adding any supplement to your regimen. There is no set recommended daily allowance for myrrh supplements. Refer to individual label directions for more information.
Add 3-5 drops of Myrrh Essential Oil to a diffuser or vaporizer, to a bowl of steaming water or a hot bath to fill a room with its earthy scent. To use topically, add ~5 drops of Myrrh Oil to ~10 mL of any Piping Rock carrier oil.
Myrrh Essential Oil is for external use only and should be diluted in a carrier oil such as sweet almond, jojoba, grapeseed or avocado oil before being used topically. Do not apply to broken or irritated skin. Always consult your trusted physician before adding any essential oil to your regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or taking any medications. Discontinue use and alert your doctor should an adverse reaction occur. Keep out of reach of children and away from eyes and mouth. Essential oils are flammable.
