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Commiphora myrrha

Commiphora myrrha is a spiny, deciduous shrub or small tree in the family Burseraceae, typically growing to a height of 4–5 meters with a distinct short trunk and silvery, peeling bark that exudes a fragrant yellowish oleo-gum-resin known as myrrh.^[1] Native to arid and semi-arid regions of northeastern Africa, including Ethiopia, Somalia, and Kenya, as well as the Arabian Peninsula in countries like Saudi Arabia and Oman, it thrives in open Acacia-Commiphora bushlands on shallow, limestone-rich soils at elevations of 250–1,300 meters, where annual rainfall ranges from 230–300 mm.^[1]^[2] The plant features trifoliate, greyish-green leaves measuring 6–44 mm in length and spine-tipped branches, with the resin obtained by tapping the stem or bark, a process that has been practiced for millennia.^[1] Myrrh has been a cornerstone of traditional medicine across African, Arabian, Chinese, and Ayurvedic systems, valued for its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties in treating wounds, ulcers, digestive disorders, infections, and pain.^[3] Modern pharmacological research confirms its rich phytochemical profile, including sesquiterpenoids, triterpenoids, and essential oils, which underpin antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, and neuroprotective effects, with recent studies exploring its potential against parasitic diseases and even respiratory infections like COVID-19.^[3] Beyond medicine, myrrh serves in perfumery, incense, and cosmetics due to its aromatic qualities, and historically in embalming and religious rituals, contributing to its economic importance in dryland regions where sustainable harvesting supports livelihoods.^[1]^[2] Conservation efforts are needed as overexploitation and habitat loss threaten wild populations, though agroforestry practices show promise for cultivation.^[1]

Taxonomy and nomenclature

Taxonomic classification

Commiphora myrrha belongs to the kingdom Plantae, phylum Tracheophyta, class Magnoliopsida, order Sapindales, family Burseraceae, genus Commiphora, and species myrrha.^[4] The accepted name is Commiphora myrrha (T. Nees) Engl., published in 1883.^[4] Several synonyms exist for this species, including Commiphora molmol Engl. ex Tschirch and historical variants such as Balsamodendrum myrrha T. Nees.^[5]^[6] Other heterotypic synonyms include Balsamea myrrha Baill., Balsamodendrum simplicifolium Baker, and Commiphora playfairii Engl.^[4] The genus Commiphora encompasses approximately 180 species, primarily distributed in arid and semi-arid tropical and subtropical regions of Africa, Arabia, and India.^[7] Commiphora myrrha is closely related to other species in the genus, such as Commiphora gileadensis (balm of Gilead), which produces a resin with similarities in appearance and historical uses but a distinct chemical profile. Morphological distinctions confirming the identity of Commiphora myrrha include its spiny habit as a shrub or small tree up to 4 meters tall, with all branchlets ending in sharp spines, and imparipinnate leaves featuring 3–5 variable leaflets that are chartaceous, greyish-green or glaucous, with entire or weakly toothed margins and 3–4 main veins.^[8] These traits, particularly the spine-tipped branchlets and leaflet variability, differentiate it from non-spiny congeners or those with simpler leaf structures.^[8]

Common names and etymology

The scientific name Commiphora myrrha derives from ancient linguistic roots reflecting the plant's defining characteristic: its gum resin production. The genus name Commiphora originates from the Greek words kommi (κόμμι), meaning "gum," and phora (φορά), meaning "bearing" or "carrier," thus denoting a "gum-bearer."^[1] The specific epithet myrrha stems from the Arabic term murr (مر), which translates to "bitter," alluding to the acrid taste of the extracted resin.^[3] In various regional languages, C. myrrha is known by names that often echo this bitterness or its resinous yield. Common English names include myrrh tree, common myrrh, African myrrh, and gum myrrh.^[9] In Arabic, it is called murr, directly linking to the etymological root.^[10] Somali speakers refer to it as didin, while in Hebrew, the biblical term is mor (מוֹר), emphasizing its historical role as a bitter aromatic substance.^[1]^[11] The nomenclature of myrrh has evolved across ancient texts, tracing a path from Semitic origins to classical languages. In the Hebrew Bible, it appears as mor, derived from the root m-r-r signifying bitterness, as seen in references to its use in anointing oils and perfumes.^[12] This term influenced the Aramaic murr and entered Latin as myrrha or murra in Roman and Greek writings, such as those by Pliny the Elder, preserving the phonetic and semantic essence through trade routes.^[13]

Botanical description

Physical morphology

Commiphora myrrha is a spiny, deciduous shrub or small tree that typically reaches heights of 2 to 5 meters, featuring a short, sturdy trunk and numerous spreading, stiff branches tipped with spines.^[1]^[14]^[15] The outer bark is silvery, whitish, or bluish-grey, peeling off in papery flakes to reveal a greener underbark, while the branches are nearly glabrous and adapted for arid conditions through their thorny structure, which provides defense against herbivores.^[1]^[14] The leaves are trifoliate and imparipinnate, with a greyish-green or glaucous hue, borne on petioles measuring 1 to 10 mm long; each leaf consists of three elliptic, spathulate, or lanceolate leaflets, the terminal one 6 to 44 mm long and 3 to 20 mm wide, featuring 3 to 4 weak main veins and entire or slightly toothed margins.^[1]^[14] These leaves are deciduous, dropping before the flowers emerge, which contributes to the plant's drought tolerance in dry environments.^[15] Flowers are dioecious and appear in small clusters after leaf fall, with male flowers precocious and borne 2 to 4 together in sparsely glandular dichasial cymes 3 to 4 mm long; individual flowers are yellow-red, measuring about 3 to 4 mm in diameter, with oblong petals 4.5 mm long and 1.5 mm wide, supported by a beaker-shaped receptacle. Female flowers are similar but possess a prominent inferior ovary.^[14]^[15] The fruit develops as 1 to 2 flattened, ovoid, beaked capsules per jointed stalk 2 to 4 mm long, reaching up to 12.5 mm in total length (including a 2.5 mm beak) and 6.3 mm in width, ripening to a reddish-brown color; the pericarp is two-valved, enclosing a single smooth, ovoid seed approximately 7 mm long.^[1]^[14] The spines on branchlets serve as a key adaptation, deterring grazing animals in resource-scarce habitats.^[14]

Resin production

The production of myrrh resin in Commiphora myrrha occurs as a natural defense mechanism, where the tree exudes a sap-like fluid from incisions made in the bark in response to injury, which then hardens upon exposure to air into an oleo-gum-resin.^[16] This exudation flows through interconnected longitudinal and horizontal resin canals within the stem, facilitating the release of the protective substance.^[16] Traditional tapping involves making superficial slashes or incisions on the trunk and branches using tools such as axes or specialized blades during the dry season, typically from March to October, with peak yields in May-July and September-October.^[16] Collectors allow the pale yellow droplets to ooze and harden over several weeks before harvesting them, often employing methods like the rill technique, where incisions are arranged in patterns to channel the flow, sometimes enhanced by chemical stimulants such as dilute acids for improved output.^[16] Annual yields from a single mature tree average 0.5 to 3 kg of resin, depending on regional practices in areas like Ethiopia and Somalia.^[17] The resulting resin exhibits physical properties including a pale yellow to reddish-brown coloration that darkens with age, a strong aromatic and balsamic odor, and a bitter, acrid taste.^[18] Its composition typically consists of 25-40% alcohol-soluble resin, 57-61% water-soluble gum, and 2-8% volatile oil, though proportions can vary slightly by environmental factors.^[3] Factors influencing resin production include tree maturity, with optimal yields from trees exceeding 30 cm in diameter, as younger or smaller specimens produce less and are more vulnerable to damage.^[16] Seasonal timing is critical, as dry conditions promote higher exudation rates compared to rainy periods, which can dilute or reduce flow.^[17] Over-tapping, through excessive incisions or lack of rest periods (recommended every 3 years), risks irreversible bark damage, increased susceptibility to pests and fire, and overall tree decline, potentially leading to reduced long-term productivity.^[17]

Distribution and ecology

Geographic range

Commiphora myrrha is native to the Horn of Africa, including Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya, Djibouti, and Eritrea, as well as the Arabian Peninsula, encompassing Yemen, Oman, and Saudi Arabia.^[4] Its distribution is centered in semi-arid lowlands and dry shrublands across these regions.^[4] The species typically occurs at elevations between 250 and 1,300 meters above sea level, thriving in environments with mean annual rainfall of 230–300 mm.^[1] Primary habitats span extensive semi-arid bushlands in the Horn of Africa and southern Arabian Peninsula, forming part of the Somali Acacia-Commiphora bushlands and thickets ecoregion, which covers over 700,000 km².^[19]

Habitat preferences and conservation

Commiphora myrrha is adapted to arid and semi-arid environments, primarily occurring in scrublands and thorny bushlands characterized by low and irregular rainfall. It flourishes in regions receiving an annual precipitation of 230-300 mm, with mean temperatures ranging from 20-40°C, enabling its survival in hot, dry conditions where water availability is limited.^[1]^[20] The species prefers well-drained, shallow soils, particularly thin limestone or sandy substrates that support its root system in nutrient-poor settings. It commonly grows in association with other drought-tolerant species, such as Acacia and Boswellia in dry woodlands and Acacia-Commiphora bushlands, forming mixed vegetation on rocky slopes and valleys.^[21]^[22]^[23] Despite its relatively wide distribution, C. myrrha has not been assessed by the IUCN Red List as of 2025. However, local populations, especially in Somalia, face vulnerability from overharvesting for resin extraction, which has led to tree mortality and contributed to desertification.^[24]^[25] Additional threats include prolonged droughts exacerbated by climate change, intensive livestock grazing that damages seedlings, and habitat fragmentation from agricultural expansion and land use changes.^[26]^[27] Conservation efforts emphasize community involvement to promote sustainability, with managed reserves in Ethiopia supporting regulated harvesting of gum resins from Commiphora species to balance ecological health and local livelihoods. In Yemen, similar initiatives focus on protecting dryland ecosystems through controlled access and monitoring. Guidelines for sustainable tapping have been advanced via projects like the FRAME initiative in Ethiopia (2006–2011), aiming to prevent over-tapping that diminishes resin yields while fostering fair trade practices.^[28]^[29]^[30]

Historical significance

Role in ancient civilizations

In ancient Egypt, dating back to around 3000 BCE, myrrh derived from Commiphora myrrha played a central role in funerary and religious practices. It was incorporated into natron mixtures during mummification to preserve bodies and ward off decay, with resins applied to cavities and wrappings to facilitate the soul's journey to the afterlife.^[31] Myrrh was also burned as incense in temple rituals to honor deities like Isis and Osiris, its aromatic smoke believed to purify sacred spaces and invoke divine presence; this usage is referenced in medical and ritual texts such as the Ebers Papyrus (c. 1550 BCE), which highlights its integration into broader cultural ceremonies.^[32]^[33] In Biblical and Middle Eastern traditions, myrrh held profound symbolic and ritualistic importance. It was one of the gifts presented by the Magi to the infant Jesus, signifying suffering and mortality in Christian exegesis, as recounted in the Gospel of Matthew (2:11).^[34] In Hebrew practices, myrrh was a key ingredient in holy anointing oil for consecrating priests, tabernacles, and altars, as prescribed in Exodus 30:23-25, where it symbolized purification and divine sanctification during temple rituals.^[34] Among Greco-Roman societies, myrrh was valued for its exotic origins and ritual applications. Theophrastus, in his Historia Plantarum (c. 300 BCE), described myrrh as a resin exuding from Arabian trees, noting its collection methods and use in sacred fumigations and offerings to gods.^[35] Pliny the Elder, in Natural History (c. 77 CE), detailed its importation from Arabia as a luxury good essential for perfumes and incense in religious ceremonies, emphasizing its role in lustrations and funerary rites across the empire.^[36] In other ancient civilizations, myrrh influenced ritual practices through trade and adaptation. In ancient India, it was incorporated into Ayurvedic traditions as "bola" or akin to guggul resins from related Commiphora species.^[37] In China, myrrh entered traditional systems via Silk Road exchanges, used in traditional Chinese medicine for conditions such as trauma, arthritis, and blood stagnation.^[38]

Historical trade and cultural uses

The trade in myrrh derived from Commiphora myrrha formed a cornerstone of ancient economic networks, particularly along the Incense Route, a vast system of land and sea pathways active from around 2000 BCE to 200 CE that linked production regions in the Horn of Africa, including Somalia, to markets in the Mediterranean via the Red Sea and caravan trails through Arabia. This route facilitated the transport of myrrh alongside frankincense and other aromatics, with overland segments spanning more than 2,000 kilometers and featuring relay stations for camel caravans. Initially dominated by the Sabaeans of South Arabia, who enforced monopolies through fortified outposts and controlled access to key ports like Qana, the trade generated substantial wealth for intermediary kingdoms by taxing and regulating the flow of goods.^[39]^[40] By the Hellenistic and Roman periods, control shifted partially to the Nabataeans and Romans, who developed alternative maritime connections from the Red Sea to Egypt and beyond, aiming to reduce reliance on Arabian middlemen while sustaining high-volume exchanges. Myrrh's economic significance was profound; in antiquity, it commanded prices comparable to or exceeding gold due to its scarcity, labor-intensive harvesting, and essential role in rituals and preservation, making it a symbol of luxury and power. Ancient Egypt, a primary consumer, mounted dedicated expeditions to the Land of Punt—likely in the Horn of Africa—to secure substantial imports of myrrh for embalming and temple use, with records from the Fifth Dynasty onward documenting these ventures as critical to royal prestige and economy.^[41]^[40]^[42]^[43] The diffusion of myrrh through these networks extended its cultural reach far beyond its origins, introducing the resin to Europe via Phoenician seafaring merchants who integrated it into Mediterranean commerce from the 2nd millennium BCE. By the medieval era, myrrh had permeated Christian liturgy across Europe, where it was blended into incense for church ceremonies, evoking biblical associations and signifying purification and divine presence in Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions. This adoption reflected broader cultural exchanges, as myrrh transitioned from ancient Near Eastern rituals—briefly referenced in Egyptian and Mesopotamian contexts—to a staple in European religious and perfumery practices.^[40]^[44] The prominence of myrrh trade waned significantly after the 3rd century CE, influenced by the rise of Christianity, which curtailed demand tied to pagan temple rites while adopting more restrained liturgical uses that did not sustain prior volumes. Further decline occurred post-15th century with European colonial expansions, as Portuguese and other navigators pioneered direct oceanic routes to Africa and India, circumventing traditional overland paths and diminishing the economic leverage of Arabian and African intermediaries in the incense commerce.^[45]^[46]^[47]

Chemical constituents

Major compounds in myrrh

The resin of Commiphora myrrha, known as myrrh, is a complex mixture comprising approximately 57–61% water-soluble gum primarily consisting of polysaccharides, 25–40% alcohol-soluble resin rich in sesquiterpenes, 7–17% volatile essential oil containing monoterpenes and other terpenoids, and 3–4% impurities.^[3] This breakdown reflects the oleo-gum-resin nature of the exudate, where the gum provides emulsifying properties, the resin contributes to its aromatic and bioactive profile, and the essential oil imparts volatility.^[3] Key bioactive sesquiterpenes in myrrh include furanoeudesma-1,3-diene (a major furanosesequiterpenoid often comprising up to 50% of the essential oil in some analyses), furanodiene, curzerene, lindestrene, and myrrha-4,8-diene.^[3] These compounds, predominantly furano-sesquiterpenoids, have been identified through gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) techniques, which separate and characterize the volatile and semi-volatile fractions of the resin.^[3] The essential oil also features monoterpenes such as α-pinene and limonene, alongside other components like β-selinene and germacrene D.^[48]^[3] Chemical composition exhibits variability influenced by geographic origin, with Somali myrrh often showing higher α-pinene content (up to 20–30% in essential oils from East African sources) compared to Arabian varieties, which may have elevated levels of furanodiene and curzerene.^[3] Such differences arise from environmental factors like soil, climate, and plant genetics across regions including Somalia, Ethiopia, and Yemen.^[3] Recent phytochemical studies, including GC-MS analyses from 2022 and later reviews up to 2025, have confirmed the presence of over 100 distinct compounds in C. myrrha resin, with identifications of additional terpenoids such as furanosesequiterpenoids and components like germacrene B and β-selinene expanding the known chemical diversity.^[3]^[49]^[50] These investigations underscore the predominance of terpenoids, which account for the majority of the resin's bioactivity potential.^[3]

Extraction and processing

The extraction of myrrh resin from Commiphora myrrha traditionally involves hand-incising the bark of mature trees during the dry season to stimulate the exudation of a yellowish oleo-gum-resin, which is then allowed to air-dry and harden into reddish-brown "tears" over several weeks before collection.^[51] This labor-intensive process is typically performed by local harvesters in arid regions, with cuts made carefully to avoid damaging the tree's vascular system and ensure sustainable yields over multiple seasons. Once collected, the resin tears are sorted by hand based on color (ranging from pale yellow to dark red), size, and clarity to determine quality grades, such as the premium Hagar grade sourced from Yemen, which commands higher market value due to its purity and aroma intensity.^[52] In modern processing, the raw resin is often crushed and subjected to steam distillation or hydrodistillation to isolate the essential oil, yielding approximately 2-5% by weight from the air-dried oleo-gum-resin, with typical outputs around 3.1% under optimized conditions.^[51] For resinoids used in perfumery and pharmaceuticals, solvent extraction with ethanol or methanol is employed to dissolve the gum and resin components, followed by purification techniques such as column chromatography on silica gel or reversed-phase columns to isolate key sesquiterpenoids and remove impurities.^[51] These methods enhance scalability while preserving bioactive compounds, though supercritical fluid extraction with CO2 is emerging as an alternative for higher efficiency and lower thermal degradation.^[53] ISO 9235 provides standardized terminology for aromatic natural raw materials, including definitions related to myrrh resin. Adulteration, often with resins from Commiphora mukul (guggul), is detected using sequence-characterized amplified region (SCAR) markers or chemical profiling to identify species-specific compounds, such as the absence of guggulsterones in authentic C. myrrha.^[54] Global production is predominantly from wild-harvested sources in Somalia, where overexploitation poses risks to long-term scalability despite efforts toward sustainable tapping protocols.^[55]

Medicinal uses

Traditional applications

Commiphora myrrha, known as myrrh, has been employed in ancient Egyptian medicine for treating wounds and skin ulcers, as documented in the Ebers Papyrus dating to approximately 1550 BCE.^[56] The resin was also used for embalming and to address parasitic infections, gastrointestinal diseases, and joint inflammation.^[3] In Arabic and Unani traditions, myrrh served as an antiseptic, astringent, carminative, and stomachic remedy for digestive issues such as stomach aches and pain relief.^[3] Somali folk practices utilized decoctions of the resin to alleviate stomach ailments, while topical applications helped reduce swelling and promote wound healing.^[3] In Ayurvedic medicine, referred to as hirabol or bola, it was applied as a paste for arthritis, rheumatic joint pain, sciatica, and edema, as well as internally for leucorrhea, heavy menstrual bleeding, and skin conditions like boils and ulcers.^[37] Chinese traditional medicine incorporated myrrh (mo yao) to invigorate blood circulation, dispel stagnation, reduce swelling, and treat trauma, fractures, arthritis, and abdominal pain from qi or blood stasis.^[57] Traditional preparations of myrrh included tinctures, powders, decoctions, teas, mouth rinses, gargles, and fumigants for inhalation or topical use.^[9] Dosages varied by application; for oral ulcers or digestive issues, 0.5–2 grams of resin powder daily was common, while tinctures were administered at 1–4 ml up to three times per day.^[37] In cultural rituals, myrrh featured prominently in biblical anointing oils, as prescribed in Exodus 30:23–25 for sacred consecration and symbolizing purification and healing.^[34]

Modern pharmacological research

Modern pharmacological research on Commiphora myrrha (myrrh) has focused on its bioactive constituents, particularly sesquiterpenes, and their mechanisms in various disease models, with studies emphasizing anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and emerging anticancer, antidiabetic, and antiviral properties.^[3] Investigations often utilize extracts such as ethanol or petroleum ether fractions to evaluate efficacy in vitro and in vivo, though human clinical data remain limited.^[58] The anti-inflammatory effects of myrrh are primarily attributed to sesquiterpenes that inhibit cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). In vivo studies using arthritis models have shown efficacy; for instance, an 85% ethanol extract at 200 mg/kg orally reduced formalin-induced paw edema in rats by significantly inhibiting swelling and prostaglandin E2 levels.^[59] A 2022 review synthesized these findings, highlighting myrrh's suppression of NF-κB and MAPK pathways in inflammatory models, supporting its potential in conditions like osteoarthritis.^[3] Myrrh exhibits antimicrobial activity against pathogens such as Staphylococcus aureus and Candida albicans, with minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 0.5 to 2 mg/mL for ethanol and petroleum ether extracts in vitro. These effects are linked to disruption of bacterial and fungal cell membranes by furanoeudesma-1,3-diene and other sesquiterpenes.^[3] Beyond these, myrrh shows anticancer potential through apoptosis induction; for example, myrrh extract downregulates COX-2 expression, upregulates Bax, and downregulates Bcl-2 in gastric cancer cells (BGC-823 and SGC-7901), reducing proliferation with an IC50 of approximately 1.4 mg/mL after 48 hours.^[60] A 2024 study further demonstrated myrrh's antiproliferative activity in breast cancer cells via p38 MAPK pathway activation.^[61] In antidiabetic research, ethanolic resin extract at 500 mg/kg ameliorated high-fat diet-induced hyperglycemia in rats by normalizing adiponectin levels (from 9.15 to 17.39 mg/L) and enhancing insulin sensitivity via UCP1 upregulation in brown adipose tissue.^[62] For antiviral applications, a 2021 in silico study proposed myrrh's furanodiene content as an adjunct against SARS-CoV-2, while a 2024 clinical trial of a polyherbal formulation containing myrrh (Tiryaq Wabai) improved lymphocyte counts and CD4/CD8 ratios in mild-to-moderate COVID-19 patients over 45 days.^[63] Human studies are sparse but promising; a 2019 randomized trial of 1% myrrh mouthwash in 12 healthy adults reduced plaque index significantly (p < 0.05) and gingival inflammation over 14 days, comparable to 0.2% chlorhexidine.^[64] Safety profiles indicate low toxicity, with an LD50 of 3,139 mg/kg in mice, but doses exceeding 2-4 g/day may cause gastrointestinal upset, dermatitis, or mild fatigue; no serious adverse events were reported in oral trials.^[9] Further randomized controlled trials are needed to validate these effects.^[3] Recent 2025 research has also highlighted myrrh resin extract's promotion of fibroblast-mediated wound healing and antimicrobial activity against wound pathogens, as well as antiparasitic effects against Eimeria in animal models.^[65]^[66]

Other uses

Perfumery and incense

Myrrh resin derived from Commiphora myrrha is a staple in incense production, valued for its warm, balsamic, and slightly smoky aroma when burned, which creates a purifying and meditative atmosphere in religious ceremonies across various cultures. It is commonly blended with frankincense resin from Boswellia species to enhance the depth and longevity of the scent, forming traditional mixtures used in spiritual rituals from ancient times to contemporary practices.^[56]^[3] In perfumery, myrrh essential oil functions primarily as a fixative, owing to its rich composition of sesquiterpenes such as furanodienone and curzerene, which impart a resinous, earthy profile and stabilize volatile top notes in fragrance formulations. This oil is particularly suited to oriental and amber accords, where it adds warmth and sensuality, blending seamlessly with complementary notes like benzoin, patchouli, spices, and florals including jasmine and rose; its balsamic character makes it ideal for base notes in both traditional and modern compositions.^[67]^[68]^[3] Historically, myrrh featured prominently in ancient Egyptian kyphi incense, a complex blend incorporating resins like myrrh with honey, raisins, wine, and other aromatics for ritualistic burning in temples. Today, this legacy persists in high-end perfumes such as Opium by Yves Saint Laurent and Myrrhe Impériale by Giorgio Armani, where myrrh contributes to opulent, long-lasting scents. Global production of myrrh extract reached about 620 tons in 2024, with a substantial share directed toward cosmetics and perfumery to meet demand for natural fragrance ingredients.^[69]^[67]^[70] Myrrh is often processed into alcohol extracts using 85–95% organic alcohol for incorporation into balms and perfume bases, preserving its volatile oils and facilitating even dispersion in formulations. Sustainability efforts focus on certified organic sourcing from regions like Somaliland, where traditional incision techniques rotate harvest sites on trees to promote regeneration and support ethical trade practices for local harvesters.^[71]^[72]

Culinary and industrial applications

Myrrh resin from Commiphora myrrha serves as a flavoring agent in various culinary applications, imparting a bitter, aromatic taste to foods and beverages. It is incorporated into liqueurs such as Chartreuse, where it contributes to the complex herbal profile alongside other botanicals like angelica root and hyssop.^[73] In addition, myrrh enhances the flavor of chewing gums, baked goods, desserts, and sweets, particularly in Middle Eastern cuisines where small quantities of the resin are used to spice confections and beverages.^[9] The U.S. Food and Drug Administration recognizes myrrh oil (Commiphora spp.) as generally recognized as safe (GRAS) for use as a food flavoring, permitting its addition to products like candies and alcoholic beverages.^[74] In industrial contexts, myrrh resin functions as an emulsifier and binder in the production of varnishes and lacquers due to its gum and resin components, which provide adhesive properties and aromatic enhancement.^[75] It also acts as a preservative in tobacco products, where extracts help stabilize flavor and extend shelf life by inhibiting microbial growth.^[76] Furthermore, myrrh is utilized in dental formulations, such as toothpastes, where resin extracts are included for their astringent qualities, often at concentrations around 1-5% to support oral hygiene without therapeutic claims.^[77] Beyond human applications, myrrh finds use in veterinary care, particularly for wound treatment in animals like horses, where tinctures promote antiseptic action and aid in minor injury healing.^[78] Production of myrrh often integrates with pharmaceutical manufacturing through standardized extracts, such as those assessed by the European Medicines Agency, ensuring consistent quality for dosage forms like tinctures and ointments derived from the oleo-gum resin.^[79] In the European Union, myrrh resin does not require novel food authorization, as it qualifies under traditional use exemptions for flavorings in foods and beverages predating 1997 regulations.^[80]

References

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BOTANIC DESCRIPTION. Commiphora myrrha is a sturdy, spiny, glabrous shrub or small tree, usually with a distinct short trunk up to 4 m tall.
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Commiphora molmol (Engl.) Engl. ex Tschirch
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Male flowers usually precocious, 2–4 together in dichasial cymes 3–4 mm. long which are often sparsely glandular; bracteoles pale brown, ovate-triangular, ...<|separator|>
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These results show that oleo-gum resins obtained from the vegetation resources play a significant role in the economy of rural households in Liban.
[24]
Somali Acacia-Commiphora Bushlands and Thickets - One Earth
The ecoregion occupies the majority of the Horn of Africa to the east of the Ethiopian Highlands, including the Ogaden Desert and northeast Kenyan semi-deserts.
[25]
Threatened Essential Oil Species
Dec 2, 2019 · ... IUCN Red List as threatened. 1 The most common species used to make essential oil, Commiphora myrrha is not currently listed but is being ...
[26]
Commiphora myrrha ecology Dr. Yarnell - BOT MED ROCKS
Myrrh grows in arid regions of the Horn of Africa and Arabian peninsula, threatened by overharvesting, climate change, and habitat loss. Overharvesting ...
[27]
Future of Frankincense - American Botanical Council
In many regions, frankincense and myrrh trees grow in the same arid and semiarid ecosystems or Acacia-Commiphora woodlands and are equally vulnerable to drought ...
[28]
Boswellia and Commiphora Species as a Resource Base for Rural ...
The “true”, and most expensive, myrrh is obtained from Commiphora myrrha (Nees) Engl. ... resin yield from Boswellia papyrifera in the Blue Nile State, Sudan.
[29]
https://forestsnews.cifor.org/4087/frankincense-and-myrrh-harvest-may-encourage-sustainable-livelihoods-in-ethiopia
[30]
[PDF] ETHIOPIA-REPORT.pdf - ICPALD
• FRAME “Frankincense, Myrrh and gum Arabic: Sustainable use of dry woodland resources in. Ethiopia (FRAME)”, which is funded by WOTRO, of The Netherlands ...<|control11|><|separator|>
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(PDF) A REVIEW ON THE MATERIALS USED DURING ...
Aug 9, 2025 · This review focuses on the usage of mummification materials such as Natron salt, Coniferous resin, Mastic, Myrrh, Beeswax, Bitumen, Cassia, Onions, Lichen, ...Missing: Ebers | Show results with:Ebers
[32]
[PDF] Herbal medicine in ancient Egypt - Academic Journals
Jan 18, 2010 · The plant medicines mentioned in the Ebers Papyrus for instance include opium, cannabis, myrrh, frankincense, fennel, cassia, senna, thyme, ...Missing: incense | Show results with:incense
[33]
ANCIENT EGYPTIAN INCENSE AND PERFUME. AN INTER
Key aromatic substances included myrrh and frankincense, valued for their spiritual and medicinal properties. Kyphi, a compound incense, was historically used ...
[34]
Why Did the Magi Bring Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh?
Jehovah himself chose them in connection with his worship—myrrh was a component of the holy anointing oil, and frankincense of the holy incense. (Exodus 30:23- ...
[35]
Drugs and Drug Lore in the Time of Theophrastus - Academia.edu
... Theophrastus, Historia plantarum, 3, 9. 7, to describe seed-coverings (in ... myrrh, frankincense, pomegranates, spikenard, calamus-reed, saffron ...
[36]
Pliny, Natural History, 12 (b) - Attalus.org
The chief products of Arabia then are frankincense and myrrh; the latter it shares also with the Troglodytes' Country, but no country beside Arabia produces ...Missing: Elder scholarly
[37]
Bola: Myrrh - Commiphora myrrha Uses, Dose, Research
Jul 7, 2015 · It refers to well drained soil & full sun. Morphology. Tree or Shrub, with spinescent branches. Leaf – Trifoliate Flowers – Small, short ...
[38]
The genus Commiphora: A review of its traditional uses ...
Jul 13, 2012 · The resinous exudates of the Commiphora species, known as 'myrrh', are used in traditional Chinese medicine for the treatment of trauma, arthritis, fractures ...
[39]
Old Incense Trade Routes - UNESCO World Heritage Centre
... Sabaeans who controlled the lucrative incense trade. Justification of Outstanding Universal Value. The significance of the Ancient Caravan Route (Incense ...
[40]
Trade between Arabia and the Empires of Rome and Asia
Oct 1, 2000 · South Arabian merchants utilized the Incense Route to transport not only frankincense and myrrh but also spices, gold, ivory, pearls, precious stones, and ...
[41]
Incense Route - Desert Cities in the Negev
The Incense Route was a network of trade routes extending over two thousand kilometres to facilitate the transport of frankincense and myrrh from the Yemen and ...
[42]
What are frankincense and myrrh, anyway? - Popular Science
Dec 6, 2021 · Today, gold, frankincense, and myrrh seem like unequal gifts. But in ancient times, the botanical extracts were worth the same, or even more. In ...
[43]
[PDF] Frankincense, Myrrh, and Balm of Gilead: Ancient Spices of ...
Feb 16, 2018 · The containers were a preferred means of storing and transporting raw incense resins, according to the Roman writer Pliny. (Bostock 1855, Book ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[44]
Incense in medicine: an early medieval perspective - Burridge - 2020
Apr 7, 2020 · 47 Myrrh, found in four incense recipes, is listed as an ingredient 1017 times, and, similarly, the term resina, meaning an unspecified resin, ...Abstract · Incense and the early Middle... · The ingredients of incense
[45]
Gifts of the magi for Christmas: Why aren't frankincense and myrrh ...
Dec 21, 2012 · Demand for frankincense and myrrh began to drop off in the third century, and 300 years later, they were very minor commodities in the West.Missing: factors colonial
[46]
[PDF] Ethnoarchaeology of the Incense Trade in Tigray, northern highland ...
Jan 20, 2022 · There are many studies of the ancient trade routes for frankincense and myrrh ... However, Christianity caused a sharp decline in the incense ...
[47]
Frankincense, Myrrh, and Spices: The Oldest Global Supply Chain?
Frankincense, myrrh, and spices were highly coveted and highly expensive necessities of life in the ancient world. They were transported from distant ...
[48]
Analysis of inorganic and organic constituents of myrrh resin by GC ...
Nov 20, 2016 · The organic and inorganic composition of the myrrh gum resin has been investigated using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC–MS) and inductively coupled ...
[49]
(PDF) Myrrh–Commiphora chemistry - ResearchGate
Aug 7, 2025 · tends not to dissolve very well in water however. Myrrh consists of water-soluble gum, alcohol-soluble. resins and volatile oil. The gum cont ...
[50]
Organic Myrrh Hagar Resin - Nagaad Gums
Myrrh Hagar resin, also known as Sweet Myrrh is a good source of medicines for the treatment of several pathologies such as inflammation, arthritis, obesity, ...<|separator|>
[51]
myrrh volatile oil: Topics by Science.gov
The efficacy of purified oleo-resin extract of myrrh derived from Commiphora ... SFE-CO2 excels the traditional steam distillation in raising yield and reducing ...
[52]
SCAR Marker for Identification and Discrimination of Commiphora ...
SCAR markers were developed for proficient and precise identification of closely related species Commiphora wightii and C. myrrha.
[53]
[PDF] SOMALIA - FAO Knowledge Repository
• In the late 1980s, Somalia was the world's largest producer and exporter of frankincense and myrrh. Wide fluctuations in exports are related partly to ...
[54]
Seeing the Unseen of the Combination of Two Natural Resins ...
Among many traditional natural medicines, resins frankincense and myrrh have been proven to be effective in the treatment of inflammation and cancer. In the ...<|control11|><|separator|>
[55]
Myrrh and Frankincense - Institute for Traditional Medicine
BOTANICAL ORIGIN AND COLLECTION ; Boswellia carterii (= Boswellia sacra), Arabic: mogar (tree); sheehaz (resin) ; Boswellia frereana, Somali: yagar (tree); maidi ...
[56]
Commiphora myrrh: a phytochemical and pharmacological update
Nov 18, 2022 · The species, Commiphora myrrha (Nees) Engl., is responsible for the production of the true myrrh. This species has other synonyms; ...Missing: extent | Show results with:extent
[57]
http://www.itmonline.org/arts/myrrh.htm
[58]
Anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity of different extracts of ...
Mar 24, 2011 · This present study was carried out to evaluate the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of 85% ethanol extract (EE) of Commiphora myrrha and its different ...
[59]
Myrrh induces the apoptosis and inhibits the proliferation and ... - NIH
Myrrh may inhibit the proliferation and migration of gastric cancer cells, as well as induced their apoptosis by down-regulating the expression of COX-2.
[60]
Commiphora myrrha Resin Alcoholic Extract Ameliorates High Fat ...
Mar 18, 2020 · This study indicated that CME ameliorated HFD induced hyperglycemia and dyslipidemia through normalization of HFD reduced leptin, adiponectin and UCP1 proteins ...
[61]
Tiryaq Wabai in mild to moderate COVID-19 patients – A ...
Studies have reported the antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, neuroprotective, antiviral, and hepatoprotective effects of Commiphora myrrh ...
[62]
Anti-Inflammatory and Anti-Plaque Effects of Commiphora Myrrh ...
Jan 31, 2019 · This preliminary study showed that Myrrh mouthwash resulted in clinical improvement in plaque reduction and gingival inflammation parameters.
[63]
Myrrh Perfume - Bon Parfumeur
Free delivery Free 14-day returnsThis oil, rich in sesquiterpenes, gives myrrh its unique fragrance. In perfumery, myrrh oil is used as a fixative to extend the life of other scents in a ...Missing: concentration | Show results with:concentration
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Unlocking the Mystique of Myrrh and Its Role in Perfumery
Oct 4, 2023 · Myrrh was used more in perfume and medicine and is most often associated with death, burial, bitterness, healing and anguish.
[65]
Kyphi | Ancient Egypt Online
Then the bdellium and myrrh should be ground with some wine until the mixture had the consistency of runny honey before being combined with the honey and raisin ...
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Global Myrrh Extract Supply, Demand and Key Producers, 2025 ...
In 2024, global Myrrh Extract production reached approximately 620 tons, with an average selling price of approximately US$80 per kilogram.
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Myrrh Extract Organic
### Summary of Myrrh Extract for Balms or Perfumery
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Boswellness: Your Source for Certified Organic Frankincense & Myrrh
Boswellness specializes in producing high quality certified organic frankincense and myrrh essential oils, hydrosols, and extracts, our flagship products.Our Products · About Us · Meet Our Team · Boswellness Certified Organic...Missing: perfumery alcohol balms
[69]
Myrrh - Lexicon - wein.plus
Sep 19, 2024 · Among other things, the beverage brands Angostura Bitters, Chartreuse (herbal likör), and Fernet-Branca (bitter liqueur) contain myrrh.
[70]
[PDF] Myrrh Oil - Agricultural Marketing Service
May 26, 2008 · Commiphora myrrha such as Fabius Dorsennus. It is also used in various perfumes, toothpastes, lotions, and. Scientific classification other ...Missing: taxonomic | Show results with:taxonomic
[71]
GUM MYRRH | WoodFinishing Enterprises
It contains 25-40% alcohol soluble resin and 57-61% of a water soluble gum. It has an aromatic odor and has been used in the manufacture of varnishes.
[72]
Tobacco Product Ingredients
R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company's use of ingredients in its tobacco products is guided by the principle of achieving taste characteristics.
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WO2020072987A1 - Commiphora molmol (myrrh) resin extracts and ...
In some examples, the disclosed compositions comprise about 30% (w/w) of myrrh resin extract; about 3% (w/w) of xanthan gum; and about 0.5% of calcium carbonate ...
[74]
Tenda Horse Products Tincture of Myrrh Horse Wound Care
Free deliveryTincture of myrrh for horses is a resin with mild antiseptic and analgesic properties · Use this versatile horse wound treatment ointment alone or in home-made ...Missing: animals | Show results with:animals
[75]
[PDF] Assessment report on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resina
Sep 15, 2010 · Antibacterial, local anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory effects of myrrh extracts and isolated terpenes have been shown in experimental models.Missing: standardized | Show results with:standardized
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Novel Food status Catalogue - European Commission's Food Safety
The new Novel Food status Catalogue is a non-binding tool that lists products of animal and plant origin, algal species, food cultures and other substances<|separator|>