Balsamodendron

• Botanical Name(s): Commiphora Myrrha 
• Popular Name(s): Commiphora Molmol, Mo Yoa, Balsamodendron and Bola.

• Parts Used: The gum resin and oil are used.

• Habitat: Indigenous to Northeast Africa.

Description: Myrrh is an aromatic spiny shrub with yellow-red flowers, followed by pointed and ellipsoid fruits. The bushes yielding are 9 feet in height with knotted branches, and branchlets that stand out at right angles, ending in a sharp spine. The leaves are scanty, small, oval and unequal.

Uses: Myrrh is used in tincture form internally for stomach complaints and chest problems, such as bronchial infection as well as menstrual problems. In Ayurvedic medicine it is used for its rejuvenating properties. It also has a historic place in Chinese medicine. It is used to treat infected wounds; bronchial complaints, sinusitis and minor skin inflammations as well as inflammation of the throat, gums and mouth, including mouth ulcers, gingivitis and stomatitis.Modern herbalists recommend myrrh as an antiseptic. It is incorporated into a salve that is applied externally in treating hemorrhoids, bed sores, and wounds. The tincture (alcoholic solution) is considered an effective oral astringent and is used as a mouthwash or for treating sore throat and similar conditions. Myrrh is taken internally for indigestion, ulcers, and to relieve bronchial congestion. It even enjoys some reputation as an emmenagogue (stimulates menstrual flow). The suggestion that myrrh can be therapeutic in cancer, leprosy, and syphilis is farfetched.

Myrrh acts as a stimulating expectorant and decongestant in the respiratory system, useful for bronchitis, asthma, colds and catarrh. The additional benefit of its powerful antiseptic action, active against viral and bacterial infection, helps fight off disease and it stimulates the body's immune response. Its astringent action helps arrest discharges, phlegm and chronic catarrh. In the digestive tract its warming effect stimulates the appetite and the flow of digestive juices, improving digestion and absorption. It both relaxes and invigorates the stomach, dispelling colic and spasm, wind and distension, and fatigue associated with weak digestion. By improving digestion myrrh clears toxins from the digestive tract and acts as a general detoxifying and anti-inflammatory remedy, useful in arthritis, rheumatism and gout. Its antibacterial and antifungal action helps restrain infection and candidiasis in the gut and clears intestinal parasites.Therapeutic properties - The medicinal actions of myrrh have not been well researched, although its astringent, antiseptic, and antimicrobial actions have been confirmed. Myrrh is not soluble in water and is therefore normally taken in the form of a powder or a tincture, rather than as an infusion. Myrrh is not easily absorbed by the intestines and so is generally used in external treatments or gargles rather than in internal remedies.

Ayurvedic remedy - In Ayurvedic medicine, myrrh is considered to be tonic and aphrodisiac and to cleanse the blood. Myrrh also has a reputation for improving the intellect. Myrrh is widely used throughout India and the Middle East for the treatment of mouth, gum, throat, and digestive problems, as well as for irregular and painful menstruation.

Mouth & gum remedy - Myrrh is one of the most effective herbal medicines in the world for sore throats, canker sores, and gingivitis (gum infections). The diluted tincture is used as a mouthwash and is effective as a gargle, helping to counter infection and inflammation and tighten the affected tissue.

External uses - Externally, myrrh's astringent and antiseptic actions make it a useful treatment for acne and boils, as well as for mild inflammatory skin problems. The herb's drying and slightly anesthetizing effect has led to its use in Germany as a treatment for pressure sores caused by prosthetic limbs.

Other medical uses - Strep Throat, Tooth decay.