Myrrh: The Ancient Beauty Protector of Peace
Serving as the ultimate anti-defense, myrrh has been used in aromatherapy for ages. Alongside its health benefits, it is a staple ingredient in perfumery, with its deep and rich scent.
Originally from Arabia, myrrh can also be found in Northeast Africa, such as Ethiopia and Kenya. Dating back over 5,000 years, myrrh has a rich history in medicine and religion. It was one of the gifts given to Jesus by the Magi (wise men) during his birth, and was also present at his crucifixion. It was also used in ancient Egypt to embalm corpses and in Roman funerals through incense burning. Myrrh is also a common ingredient in many medicinal practices such as Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, and Western herbalism.
Myrrh is an extract from the Commiphora plant. This plant is described as a small tree or shrub with thorned branches that give off a reddish brown resin. The tree naturally cracks open as it grows, producing an oleo-gum resin known as myrrh. This resin is a sticky substance excreted from the tree that serves as a protective barrier against infections and impurities.
Myrrh not only protects the tree that it comes from but also the human body as well. Commonly known in aromatherapy, myrrh has been said to invoke a sense of peace in users. The resin’s aroma has a calming effect on the nervous system, relaxing tensions and stress. It is applied as an essential oil on the skin, specifically pressure points, to promote emotional healing.
Through burning incense, myrrh also enhances the spirituality of its users. Symbolizing one’s prayer reaching the heavens, burning myrrh is seen as a way to link the human world with spirits of the afterlife to facilitate communication. In Egypt, myrrh was also burned during funerals to ensure peace after death. Coupling its spiritual uses with its aromatic benefits, myrrh facilitates an environment of spiritual growth and overall healing, both physical and mental.
Myrrh serves as a beauty ingredient as well. Known to have antimicrobial, anit-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits, myrrh is a super force in skincare. It can be applied medicinally to wounds such as bruises, bumps and aches. It also works to reduce acne, eczema, and promote anti-aging.
Serving as a constant source of relief and peace throughout the ages, myrrh has made a transformative impact on the world of wellness. When the stressors of life come to invade, myrrh is there to provide for and protect both the body and soul.
References
Batiha, G. E., Wasef, L., Teibo, J. O., Shaheen, H. M., Zakariya, A. M., Akinfe, O. A., Teibo, T. K. A., Al-Kuraishy, H. M., Al-Garbee, A. I., Alexiou, A., & Papadakis, M. (2022). Commiphora myrrh: a phytochemical and pharmacological update. Naunyn-Schmiedeberg S Archives of Pharmacology, 396(3), 405–420. https://doi.org/10.1007/s00210-022-02325-0
Frankincense and myrrh: Ancient scents of the season | MU Extension. (2022, December 15). https://extension.missouri.edu/news/frankincense-and-myrrh-ancient-scents-of-the-season
Querard, A. (2023, October 10). The Spiritual Virtues of Myrrh: Dive into the Magic of this Sacred Plant. HOZHO Paris. https://hozhoparis.com/en/blogs/blog/les-vertus-spirituelles-de-la-myrrhe?srsltid=AfmBOoooD7f2tYnygce-0AQ4EtC0LyrZOwSyPuqywKsfXQkabmKCa89V
The Northwest School of Aromatic Medicine. (2025, March 17). Uncovering the ancient magic & mystery of Myrrh. https://aromaticmedicineschool.com/benefits-of-myrrh/