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Myrrh

Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) is an aromatic resin that has been considered an important healing agent, having been used for many years as an astringent for sore gums and gingivitis, a stimulant, and an antispasmodic. The name "myrrh" is probably derived from the Arabic and Hebrew word mur, which means bitter. Much of the secretion is obtained by spontaneous exudation from the cracks and fissures which commonly form in the bark, and some is obtained from incisions made by the Somalis. The myrrh tree composition is: 24-45% resin, 55-60% gum and 7-17% volatile oil. The gum is a natural plant hydrocolloid that is classified as a polysaccharide. It is a decomposition product of cellulose and associated with an oxydase. Myrrh gum composition is: ether soluble resins, ether insoluble resins, resenes and complex phenolic compounds. Myrrh promotes the blood circulation, remove the obstruction of foreign mater in circulation to dredge the obstruction and achieve effect of alleviation, and clear away the abnormal swelling of connective tissue. According to the modern pathology research, it can regulate and decrease blood lipid and cholesterol, prevent the forming action of atherosclerosis, inhibit the forming of the cholesterol of hepatic homogenate.

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