Myrrh Medicine

With spring cleansing on my mind, I found myself thinking of how much I value myrrh as an incense for purifying the air. It has a unique ability to cleanse a space and inspire new beginnings. Its powerful antiseptic qualities are comforting and extend to the emotional realm.

The effects are the same when this sacred resin is taken internally as medicine. In the words of herbalist Dr. David Frawley, “Myrrh is one of the most famous and ancient substances for preventing decay, reversing the aging process and rejuvenating the body and mind.”

Myrrh can be used as a cleansing, tonic herb for detoxification and purification of the body and spirit. It breaks up congestion and stagnancy in all body systems and can help to release repressed emotions. Myrrh has a special affinity for the female reproductive system. It purges stagnant blood from the uterus and encourages a balanced menstrual cycle. Like many alterative herbs, myrrh has a cleansing action on the lymphatic system and, in general, helps to get things moving while boosting immune function.

Myrrh increases circulation and is useful for rheumatic, arthritic, and circulatory conditions. When used as a liniment, it is also extremely helpful for these conditions. It is one of the most effective antiseptics available, excellent for wound care as it also encourages new tissue growth and acts as a painkiller.

One of myrrh’s best known uses is for promoting oral health. Its freshening, antiseptic, and vulnerary properties encourage tissue healing, fresh breath, and help to combat oral health complaints from gingivitis to laryngitis. Myrrh is also one of the most effective herbs for toothache, along with clove.

To make a simple tooth powder/mouthwash/gargle, just use the following recipe:

1 tablespoon myrrh powder
1/2-1 teaspoon sea salt
1/4 teaspoon baking soda

Mix with water to create a mouthwash, tooth scrub, or gargle. In larger batches, peppermint essential oil or powdered mint leaf may be added for flavor, freshness, and even more antimicrobial goodness.

Though one article isn’t enough to enumerate myrrh’s fantastic history as a sacred and medicinal herb, I hope you will continue to get to know this fascinating and powerful resin as the season progresses.