Like frankincense, myrrh is resin from trees that grow primarily in parts of Arabia and Africa. Myrrh resin, however, has a fragrance completely different from frankincense—warm, earthy, spicy and slightly bitter (the word “myrrh” in fact comes from a Hebrew root meaning “bitter”). For centuries, myrrh has been used in the worship of God, often being combined with frankincense, to which it makes an excellent complement.
These multi-colored resins are processed by the monks, to rid them of obvious impurities and break them down to a small enough size for easy burning.
Uses of Myrrh
- works as a sedative, for spiritual opening, stimulating thought
- heals wounds (essentially those of a ‘weeping’ nature), protects against infection and promotes healing
- skin diseases (eczema, ringworm, etc.)
- soothes cracked and chapped skin, fades scars and other spots
- used during and before meditation to align energy centers and encourage healing
- used in gum and mouth (ulcer) preparations
- stimulates uterine health and helps to normalize menstruation, relieves contractions or spasms (cramps, aches etc.)
- relieves gas and diarrhea, improves stomach health, treats pyorrhea
- strengthens and activates the immune system, prevents/helps microbial infection (fever, food poisoning, cough, cold, mumps, measles, chicken poxs etc.)
- strengthens the gums’ hold on teeth (contracts skin), firms the scalp’s grip on hair roots
- protects against coughs and colds (viral infections), provides relief from mucus and phlegm, eases congestion, breathing trouble, etc.
- works as a fungicide
- stimulates blood circulation, digestion and nerves, increases sweat to purify