Myrrh Extract
Also known as: Myrrh, Molmol, Commiphora myrrha
Overview
Myrrh is an aromatic resin harvested from the bark of the Commiphora myrrha tree, predominantly found in regions of India, East Africa, and Arabia. It has a unique brownish-yellow color, a balsamic aroma, and a characteristic bitter taste. Traditionally, myrrh has been utilized in various medicinal applications due to its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, and hepatoprotective properties. This herbal extract is rich in bioactive compounds, specifically sesquiterpenes such as furanocudesma-1,3-diene, curzerene, and lindestrene. Despite a wealth of research exploring its therapeutic effects, further systematic reviews and clinical trials are necessary to establish comprehensive efficacy profiles.
Benefits
Myrrh is known for several evidence-based benefits, including: 1. **Analgesic Effects**: Standardized myrrh extract (MyrLiq) demonstrated significant pain relief (p < 0.01) in a pilot study involving 400 mg/day for 20 days. 2. **Hepatoprotective Effects**: In animal studies, myrrh reduced ethanol-induced liver damage (p < 0.0001) at doses of 500 mg/kg. 3. **Antimicrobial and Antiviral Properties**: Myrrh has shown bactericidal effects against multidrug-resistant organisms, although more research is warranted. 4. **Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Activities**: Myrrh's bioactive components help in alleviating inflammatory conditions and oxidative stress. Overall, myrrh can benefit individuals with chronic pain, liver issues due to alcohol, and various infections, particularly in women with menstrual cramping.
How it works
Myrrh's analgesic properties are mediated through interaction with opioid receptors in the central nervous system. Additionally, it activates the MAPK pathway, playing a pivotal role in immune responses, while sesquiterpenes like furanocudesma-1,3-diene inhibit prostaglandin synthesis, which helps relieve pain. Myrrh also offers hepatoprotection by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation in the liver and modulating pro-apoptotic proteins expression, impacting immune function.
Side effects
Myrrh is generally safe when used appropriately. However, potential side effects include gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting) at doses above 400 mg. Less common adverse effects include allergic reactions and skin irritation, with severe gastrointestinal injuries reported very rarely at extremely high doses. Myrrh may also interact with blood thinners and diabetes medications, necessitating caution in these populations. Pregnant and breastfeeding individuals, along with those with serious gastrointestinal disorders, should avoid myrrh unless under professional guidance.
Dosage
For analgesic effects, a standard dosage of 200-400 mg/day has been used in studies, particularly with the MyrLiq extract. Optimal dosages vary based on therapeutic use, with a maximum safe limit suggested at 1-2 grams daily. Regular administration may be advantageous for pain relief. Myrrh is available in capsules, tinctures, and topical forms, with absorption enhanced when taken with fats. Specific absorption data remains limited, and no cofactor requirements exist.
FAQs
Is myrrh safe to use?
Myrrh is generally considered safe in moderate amounts. High doses can cause gastrointestinal side effects, and it should be used cautiously in certain populations.
How should I take myrrh?
Dosage depends on the intended use; for pain relief, regular dosing of 200-400 mg/day is recommended.
What benefits can I expect from using myrrh?
Users can anticipate relief from pain, reduced inflammation, and potential liver protection.
Can myrrh interact with other medications?
Yes, myrrh may interact with blood thinners and diabetes medications, so consult a doctor before use.
Research Sources
- https://www.mdpi.com/2305-6304/10/12/729 – This comprehensive review assessed the hepatoprotective effects of myrrh, showcasing its ability to mitigate liver damage in animal models through significant biochemical alterations.
- https://scielo.isciii.es/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S2695-50752020000300017 – A pilot study demonstrating the analgesic effects of standardized myrrh extract (MyrLiq) in humans, indicating significant pain alleviation over 20 days of administration.
- https://www.science.gov/topicpages/m/medicine+salacia+oblonga – This literature review evaluates myrrh's potential antiviral properties, suggesting its usefulness against conditions like COVID-19 while noting the need for targeted studies.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2017/3804356 – This article provides insights into the biological effects of myrrh, particularly its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing further to its pharmacological profile.
- http://www.iberoamericanjm.periodikos.com.br/article/doi/10.5281/zenodo.3830386 – A comprehensive analysis of myrrh's therapeutic applications highlighting its pain-relieving and protective properties against hepatotoxicity.
Supplements Containing Myrrh Extract
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