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.