SO DYK
GENERAL IMMUNITY

Myrrh

Commiphora myrrha

also known as myrrh resin

Moderate (traditional + topical)
Myrrh — Köhler 1887 botanical illustration

A reddish-brown resin from a thorny tree native to the Horn of Africa and Arabian Peninsula. Burned as incense in ancient Egypt, used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine, and named in the Bible — myrrh has a longer continuous medicinal history than almost any other plant resin. Modern use focuses on the mouth, gums, and topical wound care.

  • Long traditional use as an antimicrobial wash for the mouth, gums, and minor wounds
  • Eases inflammation of the gums (gingivitis) and mouth ulcers when used as a rinse or in toothpaste
  • Anti-inflammatory action useful for sore throat
  • Topical use traditionally associated with wound healing and skin infections
  • Bitter digestive support in traditional use
  • Active in lab studies against several types of bacteria, fungi, and parasites
Skip internal use during pregnancy — can stimulate the uterus
Use caution with diabetes medication — myrrh may lower blood sugar
Use caution with blood thinners — has mild anticoagulant action
Use caution with thyroid medication — high doses may affect thyroid hormone
Topical use is generally safe, but can cause skin irritation in sensitive people
Stop two weeks before surgery
Research

Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs · EMA Herbal Medicinal Product Monographs · American Botanical Council HerbMedPro

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