In our journey through the world of sacred aromas, we now approach one of the most ancient and mysterious substances: myrrh. If Frankincense is a prayer ascending to the heavens, then Myrrh is a blessing descending to earth. It is the aroma of deep transformation, healing, and unconditional love.
Ancient Origins: Precious Tears of the Desert
Myrrh, like frankincense, is a resin obtained from trees of the Commiphora genus, which grow in the dry, rocky regions of Northeast Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
In ancient times, the main centers of myrrh production and trade were the kingdoms of Sheba (in modern-day Yemen) and Somalia. It was so valuable that it was transported along the famous “Incense Route” by camel caravans, alongside gold, silk, and spices.
Myrrh resin is called the “tears” of the tree. The bark was scored, and a thick, golden-brown sap would slowly ooze from the wound, solidifying in the air into peculiar drop-like tears. This process symbolized suffering and healing, pain and the gift of life.
The Myrrh-Bearing Women: Those Who Brought the Fragrance of the Resurrection
A special role in the history of myrrh belongs to the Myrrh-bearing Women – those very women who, at dawn on the first day of the week, went to the Savior’s Tomb to anoint His body with aromatic oils and burial shrouds, according to ancient custom. They went, unaware of the Resurrection, driven only by a love and faithfulness stronger than death.
In their hands was a vessel of myrrh – a precious mixture of aromatic oils, the main component of which was myrrh. Their deed forever inscribed them in the Gospel story as a testament to a love that does not stop before a stone tomb. They prepared to pour out the fragrance of death but became the first heralds of Life. Thus, myrrh, a symbol of death, became an integral part of the news of the Resurrection.
Symbolism: An Aroma Connecting Heaven and Earth
The symbolism of myrrh is deep and multifaceted:
Sacred Anointing and Healing: Myrrh was a key component of the holy anointing oil used to consecrate kings, high priests, and prophets. It symbolized sanctification, chosenness, and divine power descending upon a person.
Sacrifice and Atonement: Its bitter, pungent aroma was associated with suffering and sacrifice. In Christianity, it is a prototype of Christ’s sufferings on the Cross.
Transition and Immortality: As a powerful preservative, myrrh was used in embalming, symbolizing victory over decay and the hope for eternal life. It is the aroma of death that leads to resurrection.
Divine Love and Compassion: Myrrh, which heals wounds, became a symbol of divine love descending into the most painful and vulnerable places of the human soul to heal them.
Through the Millennia: From Pharaohs to Apothecaries
The history of myrrh spans over five millennia. In Ancient Egypt, it was used for embalming, believing in its power to conquer decay.
In the Old Testament, myrrh was part of the holy anointing oil (Exodus 30:23-25); it was used to anoint the Tabernacle, prophets, and kings, setting them apart for service to God. The Magi brought the Infant Jesus myrrh as a gift, acknowledging Him as a man whose earthly life would be offered as a sacrifice. It was with myrrh and aloes that Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus anointed Jesus’ body before laying it in the tomb, an act of the greatest love and reverence.
According to experts’ calculations, myrrh is mentioned 156 times in the Bible – making it the most frequently mentioned oil in the Scriptures. In the 19th century, myrrh oil entered European pharmacopoeias as a remedy for treating wounds and infections.
Myrrh. The Variety Matters.
Commiphora Myrrha (African Myrrh)
Region: Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya.
Status: The most common and commercially available myrrh. Considered the classic type.
Aroma: Earthy, bitter-smoky, with pungent balsamic and slightly medicinal notes. Reminiscent of old leather, dried fruits, and bark.
Use: For grounding meditation, space cleansing, in cosmetics for problem skin, and in anti-inflammatory blends.
Commiphora Guidottii (Somali Myrrh / Opoponax)
Region: Somalia, Ethiopia.
Status: A rarer and more valuable variety, often considered elite.
Aroma: Softer, sweeter, and more complex than C. Myrrha. It has fewer smoky and medicinal notes, with more distinct vanilla, velvety, and leathery nuances.
Use: In niche perfumery, for deep spiritual work, and for caring for mature and sensitive skin.
Commiphora Erythraea (Bisabol Myrrh)
Region: Eritrea, Yemen, Saudi Arabia.
Status: A rare and highly prized variety.
Aroma: The most delicate and refined of all. Floral-balsamic, with distinct notes of tea rose, berries, and light spice.
Use: In luxury perfumery, for heart-opening meditations, and for creating states of tenderness and acceptance.
The Aroma-psychology of Myrrh: The Path of Spiritual Transformation
In aroma-psychology, myrrh essential oil is a powerful guide leading to profound inner alchemy. Its effect on the psyche can be described as elevating and ordering.
Elevation Above Turmoil: The aroma of myrrh gently yet authoritatively lifts consciousness above the stream of daily hustle. It prevents the mind from getting bogged down in trivialities, attributing undue significance to insignificant events and grievances. This helps to gain clarity and see the true scale of things, separating the important from the superfluous.
Harmony of Mind and Senses: Myrrh has a unique ability to eliminate mental confusion and quell the rebellion of feelings. It warms the soul, dispelling chaotic thoughts and calming emotional storms. The result is a state of quick, bright, and easy wakefulness – mindfulness becomes natural, and perception becomes clear and pure, without the risk of nervous exhaustion or apathy.
A Guide to the Essence: This aroma is a faithful companion in meditation, as it cleanses the mental space, opening the path to deep love and inner light. It promotes energetic growth, cleansing the aura and stimulating the upward movement of energy towards the higher centers of consciousness. This is the “path of water” – fluid yet unstoppable, washing away all obstacles on the path to knowledge and truth.
The Power of Noble Detachment: The dual nature of myrrh is manifested in its influence on relationships. On one hand, it is an aroma of deep understanding and all-forgiveness, healing the wounds of the heart. On the other hand, it is the energy of firm and dignified estrangement from everything base, toxic, and destructive. Myrrh helps to establish healthy internal and external boundaries.
Liberation from the Fetters of Ego: A crucial aspect of its work is liberation from egocentrism and dependencies. It dissolves the illusion of one’s own exclusivity, opening the heart to compassion and unity with all existence. The scent of myrrh is the scent of noble dignity, attained through deep acceptance and the renunciation of all that hinders the spirit from soaring.
Aromatherapy: The Healing Power of the Earth
For the Skin:
Powerful Regenerative and Antiseptic Agent: Effective for treating wounds, cuts, cracks, eczema, dermatitis, and acne. Stimulates healing and tissue renewal.
How to use: Only in diluted form (1-3% in a carrier oil) for spot application, or in ointments and creams.
For the Respiratory System:
Expectorant and Anti-inflammatory Action: Helps with bronchitis, sinusitis, cough, and sore throat.
How to use: Steam inhalations (1-2 drops in a bowl of hot water), chest and back massage in a blend with a carrier oil.
For the Immune and Hormonal Systems:
Immunostimulant: Activates the body’s defense mechanisms.
Balancing Action: Helps balance thyroid function and normalize the menstrual cycle.
How to use: Abdominal massage and over the thyroid area (when added to body creams: diluted, 5-7 drops per 10 grams of base).
For the Emotional Sphere:
Grounding and Fortifying Action: Helps with emotional exhaustion, hysterics, and feelings of emptiness. Provides support and a sense of security.
How to use: Diffuser (3-5 drops), wearing in an aroma locket, inhaling directly from the bottle during critical moments.
Myrrh is an aromatic embrace. The oil gently grounds, returning to the soul a sense of home and safety. It helps to accept one’s “shadows,” pain, and vulnerability, not by rejecting them, but by transforming them into a source of strength. This oil is for those who have gone through suffering and seek deep meaning and healing within it. It teaches that true spirituality is born not in the escape from matter, but in its blessing and sanctification.
You must try this oil – it is a fundamental essence for the deep healing of soul and body.
Text by Elena Mechta: Certified Aromapsychologist & Leading Essential Oils Guide.
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