"And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother,
and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they opened their treasures, they presented
him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh." - St Matthew 2:11
There are some botanical authorities who say that the three wise men
may have also carried myrrh to not only gift to the baby
Christ but also may have used it to treat canker sores on the
journey. The gummy resin that flows from this almost leafless Middle
Eastern shrub is an ancient remedy for mouth sores, as well as a
very pleasant incense. |
| MEDICINAL PROPERTIES Most plants contain antibacterial phyto-chemicals, and folklore suggests that myrrh does, too. Other than that, given the complexities of this plant family and the dearth of taxonomic information, it’s
difficult to enumerate with certainty myrrh’s medicinal qualities. The gums from some
omniphora species, like many other gums, have displayed an ability to keep blood running freely, lower cholesterol and
tri-glycerides, protect the heart, and guard against oxidation.
SAFETY FACTORS
None reported in recognized dosages under 2 grams a day. People with diabetes should take extra care if using
myrrh as it may enhance the sugar lowering effect of insulin and other hypoglycemic drugs.
Myrrh resin is also known as:
- Commiphora myrrha,
- Myrrh,
- Bola
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