Do you know what myrrh is?
Myrrh is the generic name for several plants: Commiphora myrrha, Commiphora mukul (synonym Commiphora wighti), etc. They are actually woody species, from the Burseraceae family, known for their impressive influence in history, but also for their multiple medicinal uses. Myrrh, or rather myrrh-tree, varies in size from small shrubs to trees up to 6 meters tall. They have a well-developed root system and contain a very valuable medicinal resin – myrrh proper.
Where is the myrrh harvested from?
This small tree grows mainly in the arid regions of Africa, such as Ethiopia, Somalia, Sudan and Kenya. It is also found in parts of the Middle East such as Yemen and Oman. These countries offer ideal conditions for the development and harvesting of this valuable plant, used in traditional medicine and in the perfume industry.
What we find in this article about myrrh
The following lines provide information on the potential benefits of this plant in treating inflammatory, dermatological, respiratory, liver and many other conditions. Its knowledge can guide the development of treatments and natural medicines, benefiting human and ecosystem health.
Inflammatory conditions ( rheumatism / rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis):
Myrrh has been studied for its anti-inflammatory properties. A study published in the “Journal of Ethnopharmacology” in 2010 demonstrated that myrrh extract significantly reduces inflammation by inhibiting pro-inflammatory factors such as TNF-α and IL-6. This effect may be useful in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and ulcerative colitis, where inflammation is a key factor.
Gout, accumulation of excess uric acid ( uremia )
In a study published in the journal “Phytomedicine” in 2018, researchers investigated the effect of myrrh extract on gout in an experimental (in vivo) model. The results showed that administration of myrrh extract significantly reduced blood uric acid levels and improved uric acid-induced joint inflammation. These results suggest that myrrh may have a very important potential in the relief and elimination of gout.
Overweight and obesity
In a study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in 2015 , researchers investigated the anti-obesity effects of myrrh extract. Myrrh was administered in an experimental medicine model of high-fat diet-induced obesity. The results indicated that extract supplementation limited weight gain, adipose tissue expansion. It also improved insulin sensitivity in obese individuals. These findings suggest that myrrh may have a role in alleviating metabolic disturbances associated with obesity. Myrrh’s impact on obesity can also be attributed to its ability to modulate lipid metabolism. A study in “Lipids in Health and Disease” (2013) showed that myrrh extract can reduce triglyceride and total cholesterol levels. This, under the conditions of a high-fat diet. In addition, myrrh was found to influence the expression of genes involved in lipid metabolism in adipose tissue. Another mechanism of myrrh in fighting obesity is related to its anti-inflammatory properties. Obesity is associated with chronic, low-intensity inflammation that contributes to metabolic dysfunction. A 2018 Frontiers in Pharmacology study highlighted myrrh’s ability to reduce markers of inflammation, such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), in an experimental model with obese individuals. In addition, myrrh may have an impact on appetite regulation. A study published in “Natural Product Communications” in 2015 suggested that myrrh extract modulates the release of appetite-regulating hormones, influencing food intake and satiety.
Respiratory diseases ( chronic bronchitis, asthma ):
A 2007 study in the “Journal of Ethnopharmacology” looked at the effects of myrrh in the treatment of chronic bronchitis and asthma. The results showed that myrrh extract can reduce respiratory symptoms and relieve bronchial inflammation, potentially adjuvant in the treatment of these conditions.
Diseases of the gastrointestinal tract ( dyspepsia, bloating ):
In a clinical study, published in ” Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine ” in 2012, the use of myrrh in the treatment of dyspepsia was investigated. Myrrh has been found to improve symptoms of dyspepsia, such as abdominal pain and bloating, through its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
ConCluSIonS
Myrrh is an herb with multiple medicinal benefits backed by clinical research. It is important to note that more studies are needed to confirm and expand these findings and to establish optimal doses and route of administration. Before using myrrh for medicinal purposes, it is always recommended to consult a qualified health professional. He will assess your specific medical situation, making sure that this treatment is right for you.