Oil in the Spotlight: Myrrh

Myrrh is one of the safest, mildest, gentlest oils in nature and is probably best known as one of the gifts brought by the Magi to the Christ child in biblical times. Esther was massaged with the oil of myrrh every day for six months in preparation for her marriage to the king. The Egyptians used myrrh as an insect repellant and sunshield for thousands of years. It is the most effective natural sunscreen.

Myrrh was the oil  most commonly used by the people of ancient times, and it is mentioned more than 150 times in the Bible. Pregnant mothers applied myrrh oil for protection against infectious diseases and to elevate feelings of well-being. Myrrh also was diffused and inhaled during labor to reduce anxiety and facilitate calmness. And it was massaged on perineum to facilitate stretching.

Today myrrh essential oil is used for oral health, intestinal health, skin conditions and pain relief. It is a powerful wound healer that may be applied directly to the skin without dilution. Myrrh soothes respiratory conditions and painful skin conditions. It reduces the appearance of wrinkles and stretch marks.

Myrrh can be applied topically, put in a diffuser, inhaled directly from the bottle or from the palms. It also can be taken internally. If you're new to using myrrh, use a carrier oil to dilute before applying to the skin to see how you react to it.

When used aromatically, myrrh essential oil aids in the release of fear and negativity. It uplifts the mind, relieves anxiety and soothes stress.