What is myrrh oil?
Myrrh oil is an essential oil extracted from the aromatic resin of Commiphora myrrha. The PureOil® variant is produced via steam distillation of myrrh resin and comes from Somalia/Ethiopia. The scent is warm, dry, resinous, and slightly spicy.
Myrrh has been used as a fragrance for centuries, but modern claims should be viewed with caution. In a contemporary skincare routine, myrrh is primarily interesting for its unique resinous scent and as an accent in aromatherapy and massage blends.
How is myrrh oil made?
The resin of the myrrh tree is collected and then steam-distilled. The volatile aromatic compounds are carried by the steam and separated after cooling. The result is a concentrated essential oil.
What does myrrh oil smell like?
Myrrh smells warm, resinous, dry, and earthy, with a soft spicy undertone. The oil acts as a deep base note and can make a blend last longer.
Myrrh in aromatherapy
Use myrrh primarily as a fragrance component. Research into constituents or traditional uses is not evidence that myrrh treats medical conditions. Aromatherapy can support a scent routine, but it does not replace medical care.
Myrrh in the diffuser
Use one to two drops and combine with, for example, frankincense, bergamot, or lavender. Ventilate the room and follow the manual of your diffuser.
Scent combinations
Resinous
Myrrh and frankincense provide a deep, dry resinous blend.
Fresher
Bergamot provides a light citrus opening.
Warm
Sandalwood and patchouli enhance the earthy base.
Myrrh oil for the skin
Never use undiluted. Dilute carefully in jojoba or another carrier oil. Use on a small area of skin to test for tolerance and avoid the eyes, mucous membranes, and damaged skin.
Myrrh oil for hair
One drop can be added to a larger amount of hair or scalp oil for fragrance. There is insufficient strong clinical evidence for claims regarding hair growth or the treatment of scalp issues.
Massage
Myrrh fits well into warm massage blends with jojoba, almond, or argan oil. Keep the concentration low and combine with lavender or sandalwood if desired.
Quality and storage
Check for Commiphora myrrha oil, steam distillation, packaging, and origin. Store in a cool, dark place and keep tightly closed.
Safe use
Use diluted and do not ingest based on this guide. During pregnancy or while taking medication, caution is advisable and professional advice may be appropriate.
Myrrh oil from PureOil®
View PureOil® Myrrh Essential Oil for current product information.