Commiphora molmol
Commiphora molmol Common name: Myrrh
Family: Burceraceae
Parts used: Oleo-gum resin
Constituents: Volatile oil (heerabolene, cadinene, elemol, eugenol, cuminaldehyde, numerous furanosesquiterpenes), resins (commiphoric acids, commiphorinic acids, heeraboresene, heerabolmyrrhols, commiferin), gums, sterols, tannins
Medicinal actions: Mucosal stimulant, expectorant, antiseptic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, carminative, demulcent, antimicrobial, antioxidant
Medicinal use: The best applications of Myrrh include using it as a gargle, steam inhalation, and douche. Indicated in inflammation of laryngitis and tonsilitis, sore spongy gums, leukoplakia, bleeding gums.
Pharmacy: Tincture (1:5, 90%), 1-2 ml TID. For a gargle: use 1 part tincture: 5 parts water. For a douche: use 1 part tincture: 8 parts water.
Toxicity: In large doses, Myrrh causes increased pulse, increased temperature, gastric burning, diaphoresis, vomiting, and purgation. Commiphora molmol is an emmenagogue.
Contraindication: None known
Interactions: May interfere with absorption of many lipophilic drugs.