An exotic, intriguing and enticing fragrance, Myrrh has been used since times immemorial for skin care. It is related to another exotic and invigorating ingredient Frankincense and taken from the gum or resin of Commiphora Myrrha tree.
Myrrh – An Introduction
Commiphora Myrrha tree is small thorny tree. Myrrh oil is known for it’s health benefits and used to treat colds and flus, cough, bronchitis, clear phlegm, etc. It is a calming and sedative scent and widely used for uplifting mood, treating mood swings and to remove the feeling of negativity. It is also used for making the individual feel grounded, used in a number of rituals, etc. Let us look at the skincare benefits of this seductive ingredient.
History & Religious Significance
Native to Egypt, it is widely used in Middle East and Africa. The name Myrrh is derived from “murr” which means bitter and was traditionally used in somber occasions like funerals. During religious and solemn ceremonies they burned Myrrh over hot coals for the woodsy and sweet aroma. However, the enigmatic property made it conducive for religious purposes and that’s how they began using Myrrh widely and in scores of religious ceremonies, including meditation sessions. They also added other aromas based on the purpose to get the most of Myrrh – like Citrus Oils for vibrancy, etc.
Skincare Benefits & Uses
Myrrh is extensively used to get flawless and blemish free skin. It curbs blemishes and lightens scars.
It is extremely soothing to the skin and ideal for those with sensitive skin or skin issues like rosacea, itchy skin, eczema, etc.
It cleanses skin when used topically.
It moisturizes skin and used to nurture and moisturize drying, cracking or chapping skin.
It is an anti-ageing aid and can delay ageing skin signs including sagging skin.
Myrrh essential oil is used for massages to improve muscle strength, toning and also help with lymphatic drainage.
It’s a rich antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
It accelerates healing, so also used to heal minor wounds and scabs.
Widely used in perfumery for the mystic and enticing aroma, it also has medicinal and culinary uses.
In Chinese Medicine, Myrrh was known and used widely for it’s regenerative properties. It is used to accelerate wound healing, like in the cases of ulcers, lesions or sores.
In Ayurveda, Myrrh was knows for the revitalizing properties and used in skin tonics for healing and rejuvenation.
In Bible, Myrrh was used in religious or worship paces to purify and disinfect.
Did you know Myrrh was used to prevent the spread of contagious diseases and is proven to bring down airborne bacteria?
Properties
Myrrh Essential Oil is Astringent, Anti-microbial, Anti-inflammatory, Circulatory, Cicatrisant, Stimulant, Tonic, Anti-microbial, Sedative, Anti-fungal, Anti-septic, Fungicidal
Extraction
Myrrh Resinoid and Myrrh Essential Oil are produced from Myrrh resin, where the resin is put through Solvent Extraction. Steam Distillation is done often, but solvent extraction is widely used.
The extracted oil is viscous, thick and looks yellow – amber. The aroma is dry, woody, smoky and herbaceous. Some say the scent is strongly bitter, pungent and balsamic.
Myrrh Resinoid’s consistency is thicker than essential oil and has a warm and strong aroma like roasted cocoa and licorice.
We will learn more about Myrrh obviously, because one post is just not enough to do justice to this wonderful ingredient. Till then keep us posted with your DIY trysts. Those who don’t have time for DIY try Aya Naturals for skin and face care and let us know how you liked the products.
