Myrrh Essential Oil
Myrrh essential oil is derived from the resin of Commiphora myrrha, a small thorny tree native to the arid regions of the Middle East and North Africa. Myrrh has a long history of use in traditional medicine, religious ceremonies, and perfumery.
Plant Description
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Botanical Name: Commiphora myrrha
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Family: Burseraceae
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Habitat: Myrrh trees typically grow in arid and semi-arid regions, including parts of the Arabian Peninsula, northeastern Africa, and some areas in India.
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Myrrh trees are small, often reaching a height of about 3 meters (10 feet). They have distinctive thorny branches and can withstand harsh, dry conditions. The resin is extracted from the tree by making incisions in the bark, allowing the sap to ooze out and harden into golden-brown resin tears.
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History
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Ancient Use: Myrrh has a rich history dating back thousands of years. It was highly valued in ancient Egypt and was used in embalming processes to preserve the bodies of pharaohs and other important figures. Myrrh was also used as a perfume, incense, and medicinal remedy in various ancient cultures.
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Biblical References: Myrrh is mentioned multiple times in the Bible, most notably as one of the gifts brought by the Three Wise Men to the infant Jesus. It is also mentioned in the Song of Solomon and the Old Testament as a symbol of purification and an ingredient in holy anointing oils.
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Traditional Medicine: Myrrh has been used in traditional medicine for its purported healing properties. It was used topically to treat wounds, ulcers, and as an antiseptic. Internally, it was used for various ailments, including respiratory issues and digestive complaints.
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Modern Use: Today, myrrh essential oil is still used in aromatherapy and natural remedies for its potential health benefits.
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Extraction of Myrrh Essential Oil: Myrrh essential oil is extracted from the resin tears of the myrrh tree through a process of steam distillation. The resin is collected and then steam is passed through it, causing the essential oil to vaporize. The vapor is then condensed and collected, resulting in the aromatic myrrh essential oil.
Take a Closer Look
BOTANICAL NAME
Commiphora myrrha
EXTRACTION METHOD
Steam Distillation
AROMATIC DESCRIPTION
Hot, Smoky, Herbaceous, Woody, Dry
BOTANICAL FAMILY
Burseraceae (trees and shrubs)
PLANT PART
Resin
DIRECTIONS FOR USE
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Diffusion: Use three to four drops in the diffuser of your choice.
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Internal: Dilute one drop in 4 fl. oz. of liquid.
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Topical Use: Apply one to two drops to desired area. Dilute with Fractionated Coconut Oil to minimize any skin sensitivity.
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RECOMMENDED USES
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Add 1–2 drops to toothpaste for added cleansing benefits
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Diffuse to help promote awareness and lift your mood.
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Add to your lotion/moisturizer to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
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Add 1–2 drops to 1⁄4 cup of water with a little agave or honey to help ease the stomach.
BENEFITS OF MYRRH OIL
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Healthy Inflammatory Response: myrrh oil supports a healthy inflammatory response when taken internally or used topically.
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Oral Health: Myrrh essential oil has been used in oral care products due to its potential to support gum health and reduce the risk of oral irritations.
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Discomfort Relief: Myrrh oil might have soothing properties, making it potentially useful for alleviating mild tension when diluted and applied topically.
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Respiratory Health: Inhalation of myrrh oil vapor may offer temporary relief from stuffiness and respiratory discomfort, especially when used in a diffuser.
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Skin Health: Myrrh essential oil is sometimes included in skincare products due to its benefits for skin health, such as moisturizing and rejuvenating properties.
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Digestive Support: In some natural remedies, myrrh oil is believed to support digestive health when diluted and applied to the abdomen or ingested in small amounts.
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Joint Discomfort: Myrrh oil may be used as a part of massage blends to potentially alleviate minor joint discomfort and stiffness.
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Healthy feet & toes: Myrrh oil may possess certain properties that could be useful in addressing funky skin irritations or as part of foot care routines.
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CAUTIONS
Possible skin sensitivities. Keep out of reach of children. if you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor's care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and other sensitive areas.
diy recipes with myrrh oil
1. Soothing Facial Serum
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1 tablespoon Jojoba oil
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1 tablespoon Rosehip oil
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3 drops Myrrh essential oil
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3 drops Lavender essential oil
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2 drops Frankincense essential oil
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Directions: Mix all the oils in a small glass bottle. Apply a few drops of this serum to your clean face and neck in the morning and evening to promote healthy and rejuvenated skin.
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2. Calming Bath Blend
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1 cup Epsom salt
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10 drops Myrrh essential oil
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5 drops Lavender essential oil
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5 drops Chamomile essential oil
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Directions: Mix the Epsom salt and essential oils in a bowl. Add this blend to a warm bath for a relaxing and soothing soak, which can help relieve stress and promote better sleep.
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3. Muscle Relaxing Massage Oil
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2 tablespoons Sweet Almond oil
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5 drops Myrrh essential oil
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5 drops Peppermint essential oil
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5 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
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Directions: Combine all the oils in a dark glass bottle. Use this massage oil to alleviate muscle tension and soothe sore muscles after a strenuous workout.
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4. Natural Deodorant Spray
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1/4 cup Witch Hazel
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1/4 cup Aloe Vera gel
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10 drops Myrrh essential oil
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10 drops Tea Tree essential oil
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10 drops Lavender essential oil
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Directions: Mix all the ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well before each use. Apply as needed for a natural and refreshing deodorant.
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5. Meditation Diffuser Blend
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3 drops Myrrh essential oil
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3 drops Frankincense essential oil
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2 drops Sandalwood essential oil
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Directions: Add the essential oils to your diffuser and let the aroma fill the room during meditation or relaxation sessions. This blend can help create a serene and spiritually uplifting atmosphere.
essential emotions & spirituality
Myrrh - The Oil of Mother Earth
Spiritual Benefits
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Cleansing and Purification: Myrrh oil is often used in spiritual and religious rituals to purify spaces, objects, and individuals, helping to cleanse negative energy and promote a sense of spiritual purity.
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Meditation Aid: The rich, earthy aroma of myrrh is believed by some to enhance meditation practices by promoting a sense of grounding, focus, and inner peace.
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Spiritual Connection: Myrrh has a long history of use in various spiritual and religious traditions, including Christianity and ancient Egyptian spirituality, where it is thought to facilitate a deeper connection with the divine.
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Anointing: In some religious ceremonies, myrrh oil is used for anointing, symbolizing consecration, dedication, and spiritual blessings.
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Healing Rituals: Myrrh has been used in traditional medicine and spiritual practices to support the healing process, both physically and spiritually, by invoking a sense of balance and harmony.
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Emotional Benefits
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Stress Reduction: The aroma of myrrh oil is often associated with relaxation and stress relief, making it a popular choice for aromatherapy to help ease emotional tension.
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Emotional Balance: Some individuals use myrrh oil to promote emotional balance and stability, helping to soothe feelings sadness, or irritability.
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Grounding: Myrrh's deep, grounding scent can help individuals feel more rooted and centered, which can be particularly beneficial during times of emotional upheaval or uncertainty.
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Self-Reflection: The use of myrrh oil during self-care rituals or journaling sessions is believed to support self-reflection and a deeper understanding of one's emotions and thoughts.
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Comfort and Tranquility: Myrrh essential oil is sometimes used to create a comforting and tranquil atmosphere, which can provide emotional solace and a sense of security.
Negative Emotions: Disrupted maternal connection, distrust of others, feeling unsafe in the world, malnourished
Positive Properties: Feeling safe in the world, healthy attachments, trusting the goodness of life, bonded, maternal connection, nurtured, loved
myrrh oil affirmations
Affirmations are positive statements that can help shift your mindset and promote a sense of well-being. When combined with the use of essential oils like myrrh, they can create a powerful synergy.
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I am grounded and at peace, like the ancient myrrh tree, deeply rooted and resilient in the face of challenges.
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I release negativity and embrace healing energy, just as myrrh resin releases its therapeutic properties when warmed.
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I am connected to my spiritual essence, drawing strength and wisdom from within, like the sacred myrrh used in ancient rituals.
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I am confident and self-assured, like the soothing scent of myrrh oil that brings comfort and tranquility to my soul.
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I am a beacon of light and positivity, just as myrrh has been a symbol of purification and protection throughout history.
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Benefits of Combining Essential Oils and Affirmations:
The combination of essential oils and affirmations can be particularly beneficial for mental and emotional well-being. Essential oils like myrrh have aromatic properties that can stimulate the limbic system in the brain, which is associated with emotions and memories. When you inhale the scent of myrrh while repeating positive affirmations, you create a sensory experience that reinforces the affirmations on a deeper level.
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This synergy helps to anchor the affirmations in your mind, making them more powerful and effective. The calming and grounding properties of myrrh, for example, can enhance your emotional state while you repeat affirmations related to inner peace and resilience. It's a holistic approach to self-care that engages both the mind and the senses, promoting a sense of balance, positivity, and overall well-being.