Commiphora myrrha

Warm, earthy, woody, and balsamic with a medium-strong aroma. Golden yellow/brown and has a medium consistency.

IMPORTANT TO NOTE

The more Myrrh matures the thicker the consistency; when oil is too solid to pour (bottle left open or cold weather), warm the oil by preparing a bowl of warm water, with the bottle in direct or indirect contact with the water. 

Explanation of Myrrh Oil Thickening and Solidifying

Myrrh Oil Composition:

• Myrrh oil is derived from the resin of the Commiphora myrrha tree.
• The oil contains a complex mixture of sesquiterpenes, sesquiterpenoids, and other compounds.
• Notable components include furanosesquiterpenes, which contribute to its aromatic and medicinal properties.

Why Myrrh Oil Thickens and Solidifies:

1. Resinous Nature: Myrrh oil is essentially a distilled form of myrrh resin, which is a gum-like substance. Resins are known for their tendency to be thick and viscous.
2. Temperature Sensitivity:
   • Low Temperatures: As the temperature drops, the viscosity of myrrh oil increases. The sesquiterpenes and other resinous compounds in the oil begin to crystallize or thicken when they are exposed to cooler temperatures.
   • High Temperatures: Conversely, when myrrh oil is warmed, it becomes more fluid as the solidified compounds re-dissolve into a liquid state.
3. Chemical Composition: The specific compounds in myrrh oil, particularly the heavier, larger molecules like sesquiterpenes, are prone to solidifying when cooled. These compounds have higher melting points, so they solidify at temperatures that are still above the freezing point of water.

Preventing Myrrh Oil from Thickening and Solidifying:

1. Storage Conditions:
   • Warm Environment: Store myrrh oil in a warm place, ideally at room temperature (around 20-25°C or 68-77°F). Avoid storing it in places where the temperature can drop significantly.
   • Consistent Temperature: Keep the oil in a place where the temperature remains fairly constant to avoid the oil transitioning between solid and liquid states.
2. Heating Before Use:
   • Warm Water Bath: If the myrrh oil has solidified or thickened, gently warm it by placing the bottle in a warm water bath. Avoid boiling water; lukewarm or moderately warm water is sufficient.
   • Direct Heat: Do not apply direct heat (like a stove or microwave) as this can damage the oil and alter its beneficial properties.
3. Blending with Other Oils:
   • Carrier Oils: Mix myrrh oil with a carrier oil such as jojoba, almond, or fractionated coconut oil. This dilution not only helps in preventing thickening but also makes it easier to apply on the skin.
   • Essential Oil Blends: Combining myrrh oil with other essential oils that have lower viscosity can help maintain a more consistent fluid state. Examples of such oils are frankincense, cedarwood, and lavender.

Additional Tips:

• Air-Tight Containers: Store myrrh oil in tightly sealed containers to prevent exposure to air, which can also affect its consistency over time.
• Opaque Bottles: Use dark, opaque bottles to protect the oil from light exposure, which can cause chemical changes and affect its consistency and efficacy.
• In summary, the thickening and solidification of pure myrrh oil, especially in cold temperatures, are due to its resinous nature and the specific chemical composition of its sesquiterpenes and other compounds. Proper storage and gentle warming methods can prevent and reverse the thickening, ensuring that the oil remains usable and effective.

Benefits

• potent antioxidant
• combats pain and swelling
• antiseptic to clean and treat wounds
• has anti-cancer properties
• fights infections
• is anti-inflammatory
• supports ulcer healing
• contains anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties
• fights parasites
• kills harmful bacteria
• supports skin and hair health
• treats headaches
• alleviate gum disease
• mouth infections
• toothache
• treats candida
• respiratory relief
• aids digestion
• helps treat hyperthyroidism
• amenorrhea (the absence of menstruation)
• athlete’s foot
• bronchitis
• chapped skin
• dysmenorrhea (cramps and pelvic pain with menstruation, common causes such as heavy flow, passing clots, uterine fibroids, or endometriosis)
• halitosis (oral health problem where the main symptom is bad-smelling breath)
• hemorrhoids
• itching
• ringworm