Myrrh

Myrrh: Commiphora Myrrha

Related to Frankincense

Distinctive white flowers

Knotted tree trunk

Few leaves

Due to dry desert conditions

Odd twisted shape

Due to harsh weather and wind

To harvest the myrrh

The tree must be cut

To release the resin

Allowed to dry

It begins to look like tears

All along the tree trunk

Resin is collected...

Essential oils made from this sap

Via steam distillation

Myrrh oil is smoky and sweet

Sometimes bitter smell

Myrrh from Arabic "murr"

Meaning "bitter"

Yellow/orangish colour

Viscous consistency

Used as a base for perfume

Fragrances

Two active compounds

Terpenoids

Sesquiterpenoids

Both anti-inflammatory

And antioxidant

Sesquiterpenoids have an effect

On the emotional centre

Of the hypothalamus

Helps us remain calm and balanced

Traditionally used in Chinese medicine

Also in Egypt for embalming

By Jews as a Holy anointing oil

Resin burned over hot coals

To release mysterious spiritual presence

Into a room before a religious ceremony

Myrrh is a symbol of suffering

Burned at funerals...yet

When blended with citrus

It can be uplifting