Scientific Name: Commiphora molmol (myrrha)
Constituents:
- Volatile oil (heerabolene, eugenol, cuminaldehyde & furanosesquiterpenes, limonene, dipentene, pinene, m-cresol and cadinene)
- Oleo-Gum Resins (commiphoric & commiphorinic acids, commiferin)
- Phytosterols (campesterol & beta-sitosterol)
- Tannins
Medicinal actions:
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial (anti-fungal & antiparasitic)
- Analgesic
- Antipyretic
- Astringent
- Carminative & Antispasmodic
- Cytotoxic
- Emmenagogue
- Expectorant
- Hypolipidemic
Mechanism of Action & Pharmacology:
- Resins produce actions exerted locally on the tissues with which they come into contact. Will exert a reflex action from the gut to increase secretions in the respiratory tract, thus thinning thick mucous and encouraging expectoration.
- VO & resin stimulates the production of white blood cells & macrophages and have been shown to kill various microbes producing direct antimicrobial effects.
- VO may bind to TSH receptors on the thyroid, exerting a stimulating effect.
Pharmacy:
- Tincture
- Powder in cream or sprinkled directly on area, or added to water to make a paste
Safety & Toxicity Concerns:
- In large doses may cause tachycardia, gastric burning, diaphoresis, vomiting, and catharsis.
- Contraindicated in pregnancy and excessive uterine bleeding due to emmenagogue and potential abortifacient effects.
Interactions:
- May interfere with absorption of many lipophilic drugs.
