Origin: Tunisia
Description: Myrtle Essential Oil comes from a small tree with many tough slender boughs. It has a brownish red bark with small pointed leaves. It produces flowers which turn into black berries; both the flowers and leaves are very fragrant.
Common Uses: Myrtle Essential Oil has common use as an astringent, antiseptic, vulnerary, bactericidal, expectorant and as a decongestant. Aromatherapy applications include usage to combat sore throats and coughs. Benefits respiratory problems, smoker’s cough, bronchitis, flu, colds, tuberculosis, sinus infection, uterine infection, skin antiseptic, deodorizing, and aids all pulmonary disorders. Assists hemorrhoids, varicose veins, immune stimulant, sore throats (Klebs, staph, candida), diarrhea, liver and gall bladder stimulant, hyper-thyrodism (caution with thyroid imbalance) regulates ovaries, wrinkles, psoriasis, scaling skin, inflamed skin, hypothyroidism (increasing activity and improving balance), prostate decongestant, ovaries (hormone-like), hormonal imbalances. Also, acne, asthma, anti-infectious, (because of its relative mildness, this is a very suitable oil to assist with children”s coughs and chest complaints). Beneficial for insomnia (sedative), neuro-balancing, soothes anger, fear, despair, fear of illness, death, lack of composure, distraction, and materialistic yearnings.
Consistency: Thin
Blends well with: Clary Sage, Bergamot, Clove, Eucalyptus, Ginger, Lavender, Peppermint, Rosemary, Spearmint, Thyme, and Tea Tree.
Aromatic Scent: Myrtle has a clear, fresh scent that is slightly camphoraceous – much like Eucalyptus.
History: The ancient Egyptians used Myrtle, a plant native to Africa, to remedy sore throats and coughs. As early as 1867 there is also evidence that the essential oil was commonly being used by medical practitioners.
Cautions: Myrtle can be possibly toxic in high concentrations, and should not be used during pregnancy.