Nature is so rich that often some plants go unnoticed. In the case of myrrh and the essential oil that is extracted from it, they have many health applications when it comes to natural medicine.
The plant has therapeutic properties that involve its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antifungal action, in addition to acting as a decongestant, astringent, healing wounds and also stimulating menstruation.
However, to use them safely, an indication that has to be as a rule is to consult a medical professional. This will ensure that it is used correctly and that other problems can be avoided.
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Benefits of Myrrh
Myrrh is invigorating
Through all this, myrrh has an invigorating effect, ideal to be used to combat weakness, apathy and discouragement. Its consumption also helps in the treatment of problems with the mouth, gums and bad breath resulting from gastric problems.
Against lung problems
This species is also effective in treating lung problems, purifying and eliminating excess mucus. Another benefit is linked to the treatment of diseases such as bronchitis, cold , sore throat, pharyngitis, cough and fever .
“Myrrh has an action similar to antibiotics. So, it controls the action of fungi and bacteria. This can be achieved through the manufacture of the extract”, says researcher and specialist in medicinal plants, Paulo Guilherme.
Myrrh among women
Among women, myrrh can be used to regulate menstrual flow, especially in cases where it is scarce. Diseases such as leukorrhea, as well as diseases caused by vaginal fungi can also be treated.
Tonic effect
Myrrh acts as a tonic for the stomach, increasing appetite, controlling diarrhea and relieving flatulence, acidity and hemorrhoids.
Skin and fabrics
The plant also has an antioxidant effect, fighting skin and cell aging. When applied to the skin, it can be used to treat boils , skin ulcerations, wounds, eczema and athlete’s foot. It also combats tissue degeneration, both internally and externally.
What is myrrh
Surely you may have heard of myrrh in stories and biblical passages, precisely because it was one of the gifts brought to Jesus, after his birth, by one of the three wise men.
Thus, myrrh is a small plant, which can reach up to a meter and a half in height. It has many thorns and is quite common in semi-desert regions of the Middle East and Northeast Africa.
Myrrh belongs to the Chenopodiaceae family . Depending on where it is found, the plant may be known by many other names. Among the main ones, Arabic myrrh, true myrrh and incense stand out.
Myrrh is used as a primary ingredient in cosmetics and incense. In the past, the plant was widely used in the mummification process. Another form of consumption by ancient peoples was its addition to wine to seek intensifying the senses.
Its name means “bitter tears”, due to its sap, which drips in the form of tears when the tree is cut. It has a warm, peppery and bitter aroma, which gave it its own characteristics.
How to use myrrh
The used part of the plant is the resin, which is exhaled when cut. It is also useful in the treatment of bruises, sprains, torticollis and neuralgia. Myrrh can be found in the form of oil, incense and insect repellent.
The plant produces an oil that is used in relaxing massages and by the cosmetic industry in the manufacture of acne products and deodorants. What’s more, the plant can also be used in the form of tea.
Tea made with myrrh leaves is naturally analgesic and antiseptic, with anti-inflammatory properties that help in the treatment of inflammation, especially in the mouth area, such as gums, thrush , cuts, throat irritation, among others.
If you want to treat other problems such as bruises and muscle pain, just make a compress with the plant’s tea.
Myrrh tea
Ingredients
- 200 ml of filtered water;
- ¼ cup of myrrh;
- ¼ cup of sea salt.
Preparation mode
Using a pot with a lid, bring the water to a boil. As soon as it comes to a boil, add the myrrh and salt. Mix well and let it sit for a few minutes. Once warm, rinse and then spit.
The process must be repeated at least once a day.
Cautions regarding the use of myrrh
Before including myrrh in the process of treating and curing any of the diseases in the list of indications, it is recommended that a doctor be consulted. This will guarantee more safety in the treatment.
Myrrh can interfere with the treatment of diabetes. Thus, patients with this disease should pay attention and seek medical advice.
My name is Ellie Lauderdale, MD and I am USA based professional Nutritionist .
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board certified specialist in sports dietetics who is trained in integrative medicine. I have worked with hundreds of clients, from those suffering with chronic disease to professional and olympian athletes. My goal is to help optimize you from the inside so that you can feel, perform, and look your best on the outside.