Myrrh Extract

• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant
• Immune modulation

• Antimicrobial
• Analgesic
• Wound healing
• Oral health
• Digestive support

Myrrh extract exerts its biological effects through multiple mechanisms primarily centered on anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory pathways. The active compounds in myrrh, including sesquiterpenes, volatile oils, and resins, contribute to its therapeutic properties. Myrrh inhibits key inflammatory enzymes including cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), thereby reducing the production of pro-inflammatory prostaglandins and leukotrienes. This dual inhibition mechanism is particularly valuable for managing chronic inflammatory conditions.

Myrrh also suppresses the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1β (IL-1β), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), while modulating the MAPK (Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase) signaling pathway, which plays a crucial role in inflammatory responses. Research has demonstrated that myrrh extract can inhibit the phosphorylation of ERK, JNK, and p38 MAPK, thereby attenuating inflammatory cascades. Additionally, myrrh exhibits potent antioxidant properties by scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reducing oxidative stress markers such as malondialdehyde (MDA). It enhances the activity of endogenous antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase, and glutathione peroxidase.

Myrrh’s immunomodulatory effects involve regulating T-cell responses and balancing the immune system rather than simply suppressing it. This may explain its traditional use in autoimmune conditions. The antimicrobial properties of myrrh are attributed to its ability to disrupt bacterial cell membranes and inhibit bacterial protein synthesis. Compounds like furanodiene-6-one and methoxyfuranoguaia-9-ene-8-one have demonstrated significant antibacterial activity against various pathogens.

In wound healing, myrrh promotes tissue regeneration by stimulating fibroblast proliferation and collagen synthesis while its astringent properties help in tissue contraction. For digestive health, myrrh stimulates bile flow (choleretic effect) and enhances digestive enzyme activity, which may explain its traditional use for digestive disorders.

The typical dosage range for myrrh extract is 500-1,500 mg daily of the crude resin or standardized extract, divided into 2-3 doses. For tinctures (1:5 extraction), 1-2 mL taken 2-3 times daily is commonly recommended. Essential oil applications should be diluted to 1-5% concentration in a carrier oil for topical use.

Myrrh extract has moderate bioavailability with an estimated absorption rate of 30-50% for its key active compounds when taken orally. The lipophilic nature of many of its active components, including sesquiterpenes and volatile oils, allows for some passive diffusion across intestinal membranes, but also presents challenges for aqueous solubility.

Combining with lipid carriers or fatty meals can increase absorption by 20-40%, Liposomal formulations may enhance bioavailability by up to 2-3 times compared to standard extracts, Co-administration with black pepper extract (piperine) may inhibit first-pass metabolism and increase bioavailability, Standardized extracts with higher concentrations of active compounds provide more consistent absorption, Sublingual tinctures bypass first-pass metabolism, potentially increasing bioavailability of certain compounds, Emulsified preparations improve dispersion and absorption of lipophilic compounds

For optimal absorption, myrrh extract is best taken with meals, particularly those containing healthy fats. This enhances the solubility of its lipophilic compounds and improves overall bioavailability. For inflammatory conditions, dividing the daily dose into 2-3 administrations throughout the day helps maintain more consistent blood levels of active compounds. For digestive support, taking myrrh 15-30 minutes before meals may optimize its effects on digestive function.

When used for oral health, direct application as a mouth rinse or gargle provides localized benefits without requiring systemic absorption. For topical applications, occlusive dressings or warm compresses may enhance penetration into skin tissues.

• Digestive discomfort (nausea, stomach upset, diarrhea)
• Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching)
• Lowered blood glucose levels (in high doses)
• Potential uterine stimulation
• Temporary burning sensation when used topically or as a mouthwash
• Headache (rare)
• Increased heart rate (with excessive doses)
• Skin irritation (with undiluted topical application)

• Pregnancy (due to potential uterine stimulating effects)
• Breastfeeding (insufficient safety data)
• Scheduled surgery (discontinue 2 weeks before due to potential blood-thinning effects)
• Diabetes (may enhance effects of diabetes medications)
• Bleeding disorders (may have mild anticoagulant effects)
• Hormone-sensitive conditions (theoretical estrogenic effects)
• Severe liver or kidney disease
• Known allergy to plants in the Burseraceae family

• Anticoagulants/antiplatelets (may enhance blood-thinning effects)
• Diabetes medications (may enhance hypoglycemic effects)
• Immunosuppressants (may counteract effects due to immune-stimulating properties)
• Hormone therapies (potential interaction due to possible hormonal effects)
• Drugs metabolized by cytochrome P450 enzymes (potential for altered drug metabolism)
• Blood pressure medications (theoretical interaction at high doses)

Generally, doses above 2,000 mg per day of crude resin or extract are not recommended for extended periods. Short-term use at higher doses should be supervised by a healthcare provider. Essential oil of myrrh should never be taken internally and should be diluted to no more than 5% concentration for topical use.

In the United States, myrrh is classified as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use as a flavoring agent (21 CFR 182.20). As a dietary supplement, myrrh falls under the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994, which means it can be marketed without FDA pre-approval but cannot make specific disease treatment claims. Myrrh is included in the FDA’s list of ‘Old Dietary Ingredients’ that were marketed prior to October 15, 1994.

The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recognizes myrrh as a traditional herbal medicinal product. In the EU, myrrh preparations are regulated under the Traditional Herbal Medicinal Products Directive (2004/24/EC) when marketed for medicinal purposes. For food use, myrrh is listed in the EU database of flavoring substances (FL No. 14.003) when used in small quantities as a flavoring agent.

In Germany, myrrh is approved by Commission E for mild inflammation of the oral and pharyngeal mucosa. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognizes myrrh in its monographs on traditional medicinal plants. In Canada, myrrh is listed in the Natural Health Products Ingredients Database (NHPID) and is permitted for use in natural health products. Australia’s Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) includes myrrh in the list of substances that may be used in listed medicines.

In Traditional Chinese Medicine regulatory frameworks, myrrh (Mo Yao) is an officially recognized medicinal substance. In India, myrrh is recognized in the Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia as a traditional medicinal ingredient.

May help maintain oral health (EU traditional use), Traditionally used to support digestive function (Canada), Traditionally used for minor wounds and skin irritations (Australia), Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to move blood and relieve pain (China)

Cannot claim to treat, cure, or prevent any disease (US), Cannot make cancer treatment claims (all jurisdictions), Cannot make claims regarding serious inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis (most jurisdictions), Cannot make claims regarding treatment of infections (most jurisdictions), Cannot make claims regarding treatment of diabetes (all jurisdictions)

Raw Resin: $15-30 per ounce (28g)

Powdered Form: $10-25 per ounce

Capsules: $15-35 for 60-100 capsules (500mg each)

Tincture: $12-25 for 1-2 oz bottle

Essential Oil: $8-20 per 5-10ml bottle

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Myrrh prices have been relatively stable over the past decade, with occasional fluctuations due to harvesting conditions in source countries like Somalia, Ethiopia, and Yemen. Political instability in

these regions can temporarily affect supply chains and cause price increases. Increased demand for natural products in the cosmetic and aromatherapy industries has put some upward pressure on prices, particularly for high-quality essential oil. Sustainable harvesting concerns may lead to price increases in the future as regulations tighten to protect wild populations.

For anti-inflammatory purposes, myrrh offers moderate value compared to alternatives. While not as potent as some pharmaceutical options, its multiple mechanisms of action and relatively low cost make it cost-effective for mild to moderate conditions. For oral health applications, myrrh tincture provides excellent value, as small amounts can be diluted for use as a mouth rinse, making the cost per application very low. As a wound healing agent, myrrh’s value is enhanced by its dual antimicrobial and tissue-regenerating properties, though modern wound dressings may be more effective for serious wounds.

For digestive support, myrrh offers good value due to its multiple beneficial effects on the digestive system and relatively low required doses. The essential oil, while more expensive per gram than the resin, is highly concentrated and requires only a few drops per application, making it economical for aromatherapy and topical uses.

Purchasing raw resin and grinding as needed provides the best value but requires more preparation time, Tinctures can be made at home from raw resin using high-proof alcohol, significantly reducing costs, Buying in bulk (particularly the resin or powder) can reduce per-unit costs by 20-40%, For topical applications, creating infused oils at home is more economical than purchasing pre-made products, Standardized extracts, while more expensive initially, may provide better value due to higher potency and more consistent effects, Combination products with frankincense may offer better value when both ingredients are desired, as they’re often harvested from the same regions and work synergistically

Properly stored myrrh resin can maintain its potency for 2-3 years. Powdered myrrh typically has a shelf life of 1-2 years. Tinctures and standardized extracts generally remain stable for 2-3 years when properly stored. Essential oil of myrrh can last 3-5 years if kept in optimal conditions.

Store myrrh resin or powder in airtight, opaque containers away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Ideal storage temperature is between 15-25°C (59-77°F). Tinctures should be kept in dark glass bottles with tight-fitting caps, preferably in a cool location. Essential oil should be stored in dark glass bottles with minimal headspace to reduce oxidation. Capsules and tablets should remain in their original containers with desiccants if provided.

Exposure to oxygen (causes oxidation of volatile compounds), Ultraviolet light (accelerates degradation of active compounds), Heat (increases volatilization of essential oils), Moisture (promotes microbial growth and enzymatic degradation), Fluctuating temperatures (accelerates chemical breakdown), Contamination with metals (can catalyze oxidation reactions), Microbial contamination (particularly in water-based preparations)

Synthesis Methods

Natural Sources

Quality Considerations

Myrrh has one of the longest documented histories of medicinal use, spanning over 4,000 years across multiple civilizations. Ancient Egyptians prized myrrh for embalming, wound treatment, and as an ingredient in the sacred perfume ‘Kyphi.’ Egyptian medical papyri from 1550 BCE describe myrrh’s use for pain relief, inflammation, and infection. In ancient Greece, Hippocrates prescribed myrrh for wounds, infections, and as a gynecological remedy. Dioscorides, in his 1st century CE work ‘De Materia Medica,’ detailed myrrh’s use for coughs, digestive issues, and infections.

The Bible mentions myrrh numerous times, most famously as one of the gifts brought to the infant Jesus, symbolizing its immense value. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has used myrrh (Mo Yao) for over 2,000 years to ‘move blood,’ reduce swelling, and alleviate pain, particularly for menstrual disorders and traumatic injuries. In Ayurvedic medicine, myrrh (Bol) has been used to treat mouth ulcers, gingivitis, respiratory conditions, and arthritic pain. Middle Eastern and North African traditional healing systems have employed myrrh for digestive disorders, respiratory infections, and wound healing.

Indigenous communities in Somalia and Ethiopia have traditionally used myrrh for pain relief, infection control, and fumigation to purify air. Throughout medieval Europe, myrrh was a key component in many medicinal preparations, particularly for oral health and wound treatment. The 17th century herbalist Nicholas Culpeper described myrrh as beneficial for ‘obstructions of the spleen’ and ‘putrid ulcers.’ In the 19th century, the Eclectic physicians of North America incorporated myrrh into their materia medica for infections, poor digestion, and as a topical antiseptic. Traditional uses that align with modern research include its application for inflammatory conditions, wound healing, oral health, and antimicrobial purposes, demonstrating remarkable consistency across diverse healing traditions spanning millennia.

Limited formal meta-analyses exist specifically for myrrh extract, highlighting the need for more systematic research in this area., A 2020 systematic review of natural anti-inflammatory compounds included myrrh among promising agents with multiple mechanisms of action, but noted the need for more rigorous clinical trials.

Clinical evaluation of a myrrh-containing mouthwash for gingivitis treatment (Phase II), Topical myrrh extract for minor wound healing (Phase I/II), Combined frankincense and myrrh extract for osteoarthritis management (Phase II), Myrrh extract as an adjunctive treatment for irritable bowel syndrome (Phase I)