Commiphora myrrh

Commiphora myrrh

alternative cosmetic and health ingredient

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Commiphora myrrha, commonly known as myrrh or African myrrh, is a tree species of the genus Commiphora. It is native to parts of Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, particularly thriving in Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Yemen. The tree is known for its distinctive appearance, typically growing to a height of 3-5 meters, with knotted branches and trifoliate leaves. Commiphora myrrha is most famous for producing myrrh, a fragrant oleo-gum-resin obtained by making incisions in the bark. This resin has been highly valued since ancient times for its use in perfumery, traditional medicine, and religious rituals. Myrrh contains various compounds, including terpenes and sesquiterpenes, which are believed to contribute to its medicinal properties. It is anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-pest and can be used for fumigation or oral use. It has been used as an astringent, antiseptic, anti-parasitic, anti-viral anti-tussive, emmenagogue, and anti-spasmodic agent. It was commonly included in mixtures used to treat worms, wounds, and sepsis. It is also a potent treatment for gingivitis, canker sores, sore throat, boils, arthritis, and acne. Due to its medicinal properties, it is imagined as a potential preventative and therapeutic agent for several diseases, including COVID-19, though more studies are needed to fully understand its therapeutic applications.

References:

Batiha GE, Wasef L, Teibo JO, Shaheen HM, Zakariya AM, Akinfe OA, et al. (November 2022). “Commiphora myrrh: a phytochemical and pharmacological update”. Naunyn-Schmiedeberg’s Archives of Pharmacology. 396 (3): 405–420. doi:10.1007/s00210-022-02325-0. PMC 9672555. PMID 36399185.

El Ashry, E. S. H.; Rashed, N.; Salama, O. M.; Saleh, A. (2003-03-01). “Components, therapeutic value and uses of myrrh”. Die Pharmazie. 58 (3): 163–168. PMID 12685809.