Title: 11 Surprising Benefits and Uses of Myrrh Oil
Headings: 11 Surprising Benefits and Uses of Myrrh Oil
Nutrition
11 Surprising Benefits and Uses of Myrrh Oil
1. Kills Harmful Bacteria
2. May Support Oral Health
3. Supports Skin Health and May Help Heal Sores
4. Combats Pain and Swelling
5. May Be a Powerful Antioxidant
6. Kills Some Parasites
7–10. Other Potential Benefits
11. Simple to Use
Topical Use
Inhaling
Combinations
Potential Risks
The Bottom Line

Content: 11 Surprising Benefits and Uses of Myrrh Oil
Nutrition
Evidence Based
11 Surprising Benefits and Uses of Myrrh Oil
Written by Marsha McCulloch, MS, RD on January 4, 2019
You may be familiar with myrrh from Biblical stories even if you’re not sure what it is. Myrrh is a reddish-brown dried sap from a thorny tree — Commiphora myrrha, also known as C. molmol — that is native to northeastern Africa and southwest Asia ( 1
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, 2 ). A steam distillation process is used to extract myrrh essential oil, which is amber to brown in color and has an earthy scent ( 3 ). Myrrh has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine. Scientists are now testing the oil’s potential uses, including for pain, infections, and skin sores ( 4
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). Here are 11 science-based health benefits and uses of myrrh essential oil. Share on Pinterest
1. Kills Harmful Bacteria
Ancient Egyptians used myrrh and other essential oils to embalm mummies, as the oils not only provide a nice scent but also slow decay. Scientists now know this is because the oils kill bacteria and other microbes ( 5
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). Additionally, in Biblical times, myrrh incense — often in combination with frankincense — was burned in places of worship to help purify the air and prevent the spread of contagious diseases, including those caused by bacteria.