Myrrh is often mentioned in Bible stories. It is one of the gifts given to Jesus. Do you know that it has lots of benefits? It is a reddish-brown dried sap from the myrrh plant. Hence, this tree is native to Northeastern Africa and Southwest Asia. The oil is from an extract that comes from the dried sap. Also, Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine has used this oil long ago.
Benefits
1. Kills Bad Bacteria
The oil kills bacteria and other microbes. Egyptians used it and other essential oils to embalm mummies. Hence, it does not only give an aroma. It also slows decay. However, in Biblical times, people use myrrh incense and frankincense in places of worship. Also, they do it to clean the air. As a result, it prevents the spread of diseases. A study found out that these two reduced airborne bacterial counts by 68%.
Moreover, it does not only kill bacteria. Hence, it stimulates the immune system to make more white blood cells. Also, these blood cells can also kill bacteria. It may have an impact even on drug-resistant ones.
2. Good for Oral Health
It is also good for overall oral health. Since ancient times, people use it to treat oral infections and swollen tissues. Some mouthwashes and toothpaste also have myrrh essential oil. It is a flavoring approved by FDA.
People with a particular inflammatory disorder used myrrh mouthwash. Hence, it is used four times a day for a week. Also, about 50% of them had complete pain relief. Therefore, around 19% had complete heal of their mouth sores. Also, some studies suggest that mouthwash with myrrh oil helps in gingivitis. This infection shows swollen gums around the teeth due to plaque buildup. Still, avoid high doses of myrrh as it can be toxic.
3. Heals Wounds
Long ago, one use of myrrh is treating skin wounds and infections. A study of human skin cells found that an essential oil blend with myrrh helped in healing wounds. In another study, it helped mothers heal skin wounds from normal deliveries. More studies must be held to prove the effectiveness of the oil in wounds.
4. Relieves Pain
Many experience headaches, joint pain, and back pain. The oil can tell your brain that you’re not in pain. Also, it can block the production of inflammatory chemicals. So, it stops swelling and pain from occurring.
5. Antioxidant
Myrrh essential oil can be an antioxidant. It can fight off oxidative damage. This damage adds to aging and diseases.
6. Kills Some Parasites
Pets, food, water, or sexual activities may bring you parasites. In a study, women who did not respond to standard drug treatment had an oral drug, Mirazid. This drug has myrrh sap and its essential oil. As a result, 85% of them experienced relief from the infection. There are potential benefits of myrrh oil. These are still undergoing studies.
7. Sunscreen
An SPF 15 sunscreen with the oil was more effective at blocking UV rays. Sunscreen alone is not as effective as the mixed type.
8. Slows Growth of Cancer Cells
Studies suggest that myrrh oil can help kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. These cancer cells are the ones from the liver, prostate, breast, and skin. There must be tests among humans to strengthen this study.
9. Improves Gut Health
A study is done on animal’s notes that myrrh helps in treating intestinal spasms. These spasms are the ones linked to irritable bowel syndrome. Another animal study says that it can help treat stomach ulcers.
10. Kills Mold
Test-tube studies note that this oil can help kill mold. It can also kill mildew on damp walls and one which causes spoilage and mold contamination of food. Do not swallow myrrh oil even if you are using it for mouth care. It can be toxic. You may inhale or apply it to the skin. You can also mix it with other oils. Pregnant or nursing moms must avoid this plant oil. Hence, it can cause uterine contractions and may trigger a miscarriage. If you have a heart problem, take it with caution, as it can affect your heart rate.
Thanks to the myrrh plant for having this beneficial oil. If used right, it kills germs and relieves pain. It can also treat infections.
