Healing Oils of Ancient Scripture Part 11: Myrrh

As the Christmas season approaches, so does the end of our series on the healing oils in the Bible. It is appropriate that our last two essential oils are frankincense and myrrh, two of the three gifts the Magi gave to young Jesus in Matthew 2!

Although the Bible doesn’t say how many Magi there were, the three gifts lead many to believe that there were three wise men. Gold is an obvious choice for a gift. It represents wealth, power, and purity. But why frankincense and myrrh? Not only were these three items a traditional gift to give a king or deity in those days, but they also have some incredible healing properties.

Myrrh is a resin derived from the sap of the Commiphora tree. It has been a valuable item to trade in the Middle East and North Africa for 5,000 years, and is mentioned several times in the Bible, including at Jesus’ birth and death (Matthew 2:11, Mark 15:23). It was a symbol of Jesus’ death and its significance.

The Magi probably also knew that the health benefits of myrrh are many. According to D. Gary Young, author of Essential Oils Integrative Medical Guide, this amazing resin can act as an anti-inflammatory, anti-parasitic, anti-viral, and soothe skin conditions including wrinkles! As an essential oil, it can help with eczema, gingivitis, asthma, digestion, and fungal infections—to name a few! It contains sesquiterpenes, which positively affect the hypothalamus, limbic system, and pineal and pituitary glands. Sesquiterpenes are anti-inflammatory and antiseptic and have the ability to enter brain tissue. This means Myrrh not only has many positive physical effects, but also can positively affect mood, memories, and help in meditation.

In addition to the symbolic significance of this gift, the Magi were essentially giving Jesus and His family a valuable essential oil they could use to preserve the health and wellbeing of their family!

To use myrrh, apply two or three drops on location or to Vita Flex points, inhale directly, or diffuse. As always, if you are pregnant, please consult your doctor before using essential oils. If you have any questions, please contact me! I am happy to help.

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