Myrrh Oil: Uses & Benefits

Do you want to improve your complexion?

Are you looking for a natural way to support your general health?

Do you need to dispel feelings of stress or self-doubt?

In ancient times, Myrrh was so valuable that it was coveted as much as gold and silver.  Its essential oil has been used for centuries in perfume and incense, as well as to promote emotional and physical health.  In addition, it has cleansing properties that can be used in a variety of applications, from building a youthful complexion to reducing the risk of microbial infection.  It isn’t hard to see why this oil was once said to be “worth its weight in gold!”

What is Myrrh Essential Oil?

Principal Benefits

• Powerful cleansing agent
• Rejuvenates the skin for a youthful complexion
• Can improve overall bodily health and resistance to infections

How to Use Myrrh Essential Oil

Myrrh essential oil can be used to strengthen the immune system and support the functions of a number of bodily systems, from the nervous system all the way to the circulatory system.  It is a valuable addition to an aromatherapy arsenal because of its ability to work as a sedative or antidepressant.

Myrrh Essential Oil Uses

• Consume 1-2 drops to relieve pains resulting from stomach cramps and muscle aches.
• Diffuse to create an aura of relaxation and calm, reducing the side effects of stress and tension and promoting a state of emotional well-being.
• Add 1-2 drops to a facial cleanser to harness its cleansing and astringent properties in order to promote a youthful complexion.
• Mix a few drops with half a glass of water and gargle to cleanse the mouth and throat.

Directions for Use:

• Aromatic: Add 3-4 drops to a diffuser.
• Topical: Either dilute with a carrier oil or apply directly to the skin.
• Internal: Take 2-3 drops in a veggie capsule or dilute one drop per four ounces of liquid.

Myrrh Essential Oil Health Benefits

• Can be used as an all-purpose health tonic.  It can promote efficient blood circulation, maintain or improve the metabolism, strengthen organ systems, help the body to filter out harmful toxins, and aid the digestive process.
• Due to its strong antiseptic properties, this oil can be applied topically to a wound to reduce the risk of getting an infection and promote a quick healing process.  In a similar fashion, if it is used internally on a regular basis, users may build up the immune system to reduce the risk of infection even without topical application.
• Vapors can be used to dispel buildup of mucus or phlegm to clear up respiratory pathways and alleviate congestive symptoms.
• Astringent and cleansing properties can both tone the skin and freshen the complexion when incorporated into a skincare regimen.
• Consumption may reduce the potential buildup of excessive gasses.
• This oil’s anti-inflammatory properties can reduce the risk of viral infections and illnesses by reducing the inflammation of cell tissues and promoting healthy circulatory function.
• May be used to adjust irregular menstrual cycles and to reduce hormonal imbalances or mood swings that normally occur during menstruation.  It also supports overall uterine health.
• When applied topically, use may reduce the appearance of blemishes and diminish the appearance of scarring and skin spots.
• Using in aromatherapy practices can promote emotional balance and feelings of peace.  This, combined with its rich, earthy scent, make it a popular addition to massage therapy.

Myrrh Essential Oil Research

Myrrh was once regarded as a commodity as wealthy as gold.  In fact, the Bible even references it as one of the gifts that the three wise men brought to the newborn Jesus on the eve of his birth.  Even many centuries ago, it was widely used and burned in incense to promote overall well-being and wellness.  Today, while its smoky, earthy aroma is still used to promote feelings of peace and calm, far more of its medicinal benefits are widely recognized and utilized in general health tonics than ever before.

Myrrh Essential Oil Nutrition

Myrrh oil  is not specifically a vitamin or nutrient supplement and, as such, it does not yield any nutritional benefits in and of itself.  However many of the benefits stated above can be harnessed in support of many of the bodily systems that support the processing of nutrients gleaned from foods and other vitamins or nutritional supplements. Its diaphoretic properties promote healthy perspiration to remove toxins from the body, its carminative properties minimize the negative digestive impacts of excessive gas and indigestion, and its digestive properties enable to body to digest food efficiently and effectively.  This oil may also boost the metabolism to further promote overall nutritional health.  Users should note that these benefits, while widely recognized by users of essential oils, have not been evaluated, backed, or published by the FDA.

Myrrh Essential Oil Safety

Myrrh oil is safe to ingest in small quantities, but use in excess can be toxic.  Users should exercise caution and limit direct ingestion to small dosages. While it can generally be applied safely to skin without the use of a carrier oil, users with sensitive skin may wish to dilute with a carrier oil or lotion prior to topical use in order to minimize the risk of irritation.  The use of essential oils should not be substituted for any prescribed medication for any medical condition, and should not be used against the advice of a medical practitioner.

Myrrh Essential Oil Substitutes

The benefits of essential oils are not backed by scientific studies.  As such, and as mentioned above, they should never be substituted medications prescribed by a doctor or against the recommendation of a medical practitioner.  However the benefits of this oil may be used to complement medications and supplements that target specific ailments.  For example, regularly using Myrrh oil as a natural supplemental health tonic can improve overall respiratory and circulatory health, but should never be used in place of a prescribed blood pressure medication.

Myrrh Essential Oil Blends Well With

Myrrh oil’s distinctive, smoky aroma can be complemented by a wide range of other oils.  Its smoky, herbal notes can be accentuated by pairing with another herbal scent, such as basil, oregano, or clove.  Likewise, its earthy tones can be brought out by other earthy oils, such as sandalwood or cedarwood.  It also pairs well with light, sweet citrus oils, such as bergamot or Melissa.

Its powerful health benefits can be compounded in blends with almost any other oil.  Consider combining with another “all-purpose” oil to produce an incredible general health tonic.  Possible choices would include Melissa, fennel, and lemon oil.  To expand upon its calming effects, consider blending with eucalyptus, rose, or vetiver oil.

Some other popular pairings include frankincense, geranium, juniper, lavender, palma rosa, patchouli, rosemary, sage, tea tree, and thyme.

Conclusion

Myrrh oil can be used in a wide variety of applications to benefit the body in a number of ways.  Its smoky, herbal, earthy aroma can bring about sensations of calm and peace and reduce anxiety and tension.  When used internally, it can decrease risks of infections, promote healthy digestive functions, and encourage efficiency in the cardiovascular and circulatory systems.  Its cleansing and astringent properties can even restore a youthful complexions.  This multi-functional oil is a fantastic addition to an essential oil arsenal.

Disclaimer

Can Myrrh oil really bring you the youthful complexion you’ve always wanted?  There are no published and scientifically backed studies that would support this claim, and the FDA does not evaluate any stated benefits of using essential oils.  However the positive effects of incorporating this oil into skin care routines have been documented by many users of essential oils, who have noted that it helps to reach a firmer, healthier complexion.  Similar testimonials exist for the other benefits detailed in this article.  However essential oils should never be used in place of prescribed medication or specifically to treat or diagnose any illness, nor should they be used against the advice of a doctor.