Myrrh, a resin derived from the sap of the Commiphora tree, has been a valuable item to trade in the Middle East and North Africa for 5,000 years. It is mentioned several times in the Bible, including at Jesus’ birth and death (Matthew 2:11, Mark 15:23).
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!
Dr. Carolyn Mein notes that myrrh 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.
You can use Myrrh essential oil topically or add to food or rice milk to soothe stomach problems and increase general health. It can also be used with toothpaste to increase oral health, or diffused to uplift and increase awareness.
As always, if you are pregnant, please consult your doctor before use.
Ready to begin using myrrh? Here is a great recipe to get you started!
Myrrh and Frankincense Body Lotion
Dr. Josh Axe
INGREDIENTS:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup Bees wax
- 1/4 cup shea butter
- 2 tbsp Vitamin E
- 20 drops Young Living Frankincense essential oil
- 20 drops Young Living Myrrh essential oil
- BPA free plastic lotion dispenser bottles
DIRECTIONS:
- Put olive oil, coconut oil, beeswax and shea butter in glass bowl then place that bowl in sauce pan with water.
- Heat stove to medium and mix ingredients together
- Once mixed put in refrigerator for an hour until solid
- With a regular mixer or hand mixer beat the mixture until it is whipped and fluffy. Then add essential oils and vitamin E and mix
- Fill container and store in cool place
Photo credit: www.savoryspiceshop.com