My, oh my, it’s July! And time is flying by. Here to help you make the most out of each day, to help you slow down and relax, is this month’s favourite essential oil: Myrrh oil.
Most people only know it as one of the gifts that the three wise men gave to baby Jesus on the day of his birth. But have you ever wondered what makes Myrrh so special?
The name is derived from the Arabic word for bitter, murr. In ancient times, it was more valuable than gold and darker and heavier than frankincense (the other gifts brought by the wise men). It was the first oil to be mentioned in the Old Testament and the last to be named in the New Testament. It is also referenced in the Koran, in Ancient Greek, Chinese and in Roman texts. It was believed that the oil could work on wounds that ‘won’t heal’. The oil is distilled from the red-brown tree sap (also called Myrrh tears) of the thorny tree.
In aromatherapy, it is believed that this oil carries a very strong feminine earth energy. The amber scent creates a calming environment and is used to soothe tension, inflammation and muscle pain, and to ease away anxiety and promote relaxation. In spiritual and religious rituals, it is used during prayers and meditations as a spiritual awakener.
Myrrh oil is not only used in aromatherapy and skin care, but also in hair care and pharmaceuticals. In skin care, it is primarily known for its moisturising and nourishing properties. Myrrh can help maintain healthy skin by soothing chapped and dry skin patches. Therefore, it is no wonder that the oil is a miracle ingredient in the Le Riche Naturals Regenerating Night Balm and Miracle Moisturiser. Two primary active compounds, terpenoids and sesquiterpenes, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects are present in this oil. It helps to treat acne and inflammation and clean the skin from impurities whilst smoothing the skin.
It is believed that Myrrh can promote gum health when used in mouth wash.
So, this month, I challenge you to explore one of the ancient gifts of the world so that you can live each day in the present (and have skin like Cleopatra). Look for hair care products that contain Myrrh, diffuse the oil in your bedroom for a warm ambiance or rub some of the oil on your joints to help relieve pain. And continue to use the daily duo of Miracle Moisturiser and Regenerating Night Balm to help give your skin that goddess glow.