
General Information
OTHER NAMES: Cammiphora molmol, Cammiphora Myrrha
HISTORY: Ancient and current times in Egypt: Commonly used in biblical times. Used also in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine
PROPERTIES: Antiinflammatory, analgesic, astringent, antibiotic (topical), antioxidant, antifungal, expectorant, antiparasitic
Considered Uses
Respiratory: Colds, cough, asthma, chest congestion, sore throat (German Commission E), tonsillar stones
Gastrointestinal: Probably the best-known use of myrrh is for mouth issues: Canker sores, gingivitis (sore gums), and thrush (oral candidiasis). It may also help with halitosis (bad breath),
chapped lips, toothaches, indigestion, hemorrhoids, schistosomiasis (parasitic worms), diarrhea, indigestion, and support of liver function.
Genitourinary: Stimulates or increases menstrual flow for amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menopause, uterine tumors, proctitis
Musculoskeletal: Arthritis, spasms, wounds, bedsores, abrasions, boils, joint pain, back pain, gout
Neurologic: Headache, fatigue
Skin: Leprosy, eczema, athlete's foot, ringworm, acne, infection (possibly staph) NIH July 2014, aging skin, wound healing, inflammation
Glucose: May help lower blood sugar
Cholesterol: Cholesterol-lowering capabilities
Immunity: May help boost immunity
Cancer: Yes/skin cancer
Infectious Disease: Syphilis
Other: Hypothyroidism
* * *
SIDE EFFECTS: Skin rash. Diarrhea. High doses can reportedly cause kidney problems and can cause tachycardia (increased heart rate). It may lower blood sugar (hypoglycemia). Increasing fever. Heart problems. It may increase uterine bleeding.
CAUTION/CONTRAINDICATIONS: If you are on blood thinners or diabetic medications, discuss with your primary care provider. Taking myrrh orally can lead to decreased effectiveness of blood thinner and hypoglycemia, respectively.
FORMS: Mouthwash, toothpaste, gargles, liniment/salves to help with musculoskeletal pain, tinctures, essential oils, dental powders
Recommended Brands
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Dosage
As directed on the product label.
Some clinical and consumer sources describe a wide range of herbal amounts, and many are not supported by strong evidence. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
Amounts used in studies vary widely depending on the formulation and purpose. These study amounts are not clinical recommendations and may not apply to consumer products.
Reported amounts include: 5–10 drops in a glass of water as a mouth rinse or gargle, based on traditional recommendations.
Traditional Use (General Information Only)
These reflect traditional and consumer uses, not evidence‑based medical treatments. Product formulations vary, so it is important to follow the manufacturer’s directions.
*Disclaimer: The material above is for informational purposes only. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure a condition. The uses listed above are tentative; some have or are undergoing research trials, but many are not FDA-approved. It is essential that you investigate these supplements further before deciding to use them. Check interactions and contraindications on sites like Drugs.com or WebMD. Do not attempt to treat a serious condition like liver, kidney problems, high blood pressure, heart, cancer, diabetes, or thyroid issues without discussing it with a healthcare provider first. If you are pregnant, do not use supplements without discussing it with your healthcare provider.
