Myrrh (Commiphora Myrrha ) medicinal herb mixed with sweet cinnamon,
sweet calamus, cassia and olive oil were used to anoint the tabernacle
of congregation and the anointing of the Priests. This instruction was
given by God according to Exodus 30:23 and this was referring to the
pure herb.
In the Book of Esther, it was used in the purification of women and it was one of the gifts, inclusive of gold and frankincense, brought by the wise men to worship Jesus. In regards to 2,000 B.C., the Egyptian papyri made mention of its many uses.
This medicinal plant grows as a shrub in desert regions, particularly in northeastern Africa and the middle east and is also called Commiphora resin, Mo yoa, Guggal gum or resin, Balsamodendron and Heerabol. It is from the Burseraceae family.
It is antiseptic and preserving and that was the reason why the Egyptians used it to make mummies. Therefore, it is seen as herbal preservation.
The medicinal properties are astringent, tonic, stimulant, carminative as well as expectorant. The primary parts used are the essential oil and the gum resin.
Health benefits of myrrh
It is used for various ailments, especially in Egypt. It is one of the best herbal liniments for sprains, arthritis, rheumatism, gout, skin diseases as well as circulatory conditions.The tea is used as a mouthwash for gum and gum, irritated by dentures and also for any sores of the mouth and throat. It is a good remedy for gum diseases, especially for pyorrhea. It will leave an aromatic fragrance in the mouth that will last for hours. The resin obtained from the stems is used in medicinal preparations as herbal remedy for gingivitis.
In Greece it is simmered and the face is exposed to the steam as a skin treatment to heal and tighten the skin and eliminate wrinkles. It is used to make incense or burnt as incense in the temples of Isis. Currently, the trend continues and it is also used to make perfume. It is truly a rejuvenating herb.
Ancient Chinese Herbalists believed that women who suffer illness during menstruation and during childbirth, a regular rubbing of the essential oil on the body can be beneficial and preserving.
Mixing the powder with powdered charcoal is used to heal external ulcers and sores. It can also be applied to as a powder to the body to prevent bedsores and skin rashes. Health benefits include the tea or tincture of this medicinal herb which is used to purify the intestines, the body, the lungs and the chest.
Preparation of herbal tincture
- one pint vegetable glycerine, or apple cider vinegar
- one pint of water
- one ounce of the powdered herb
- one teaspoon cayenne pepper
- combine, then let it sit for seven days
- shake regularly
Sweeten myrrh tincture with honey if desired.