Commiphora (Commiphora myrrha)
Synopsis of commiphora
Commiphora is a genus of flowering plants in the Burseraceae family, known primarily for producing aromatic resins, the most famous being myrrh, obtained from Commiphora myrrha and Commiphora molmol. Native to the arid regions of northeast Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of India, Commiphora species exude a thick, fragrant resin when the bark is cut—a substance that has been treasured for centuries for its medicinal, spiritual, and preservative properties.
The resin contains powerful compounds such as sesquiterpenes, terpenoids, essential oils, and guggulsterones, depending on the species. Commiphora is best known for its actions as a bitter, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, analgesic, and astringent agent. Myrrh resin, in particular, is used to stimulate digestion, promote wound healing, reduce pain and swelling, disinfect tissues, and modulate immune response.
Commiphora species like Commiphora mukul (source of guggul) are also widely used in Ayurvedic medicine to lower cholesterol, support thyroid function, and treat arthritis. Guggulsterones from C. mukul have demonstrated lipid-lowering, anti-inflammatory, and thyroid-stimulating effects in modern research.
Commiphora extracts may be used internally (in tincture or capsule form) for inflammation, infections, metabolic issues, and menstrual disorders, and externally as antiseptic mouthwashes, ointments, and wound cleansers. Its essential oil is also employed in aromatherapy and perfumery, often associated with grounding, spiritual clarity, and respiratory support.
Historical Use
Commiphora resin—particularly myrrh—has a legendary place in ancient medicine and ritual. It was used in Ancient Egypt as part of embalming practices, temple rituals, and therapeutic incense. The Egyptians blended myrrh into pastes for treating wounds, infections, and skin conditions and used it in perfumes and cosmetics. Myrrh was one of the sacred resins burned in temples for spiritual purification.
In the Bible, myrrh is mentioned frequently, including as a gift brought to the infant Jesus and as a component in holy anointing oils. It was used as a symbol of suffering and healing, especially in preparation for burial and spiritual rituals. Greek and Roman physicians, including Hippocrates and Galen, employed myrrh to treat infections, respiratory illness, wounds, and digestive troubles.
In Ayurvedic medicine, Commiphora mukul (guggul) has been used for over 2,000 years in formulas to balance kapha dosha, treat obesity, high cholesterol, hypothyroidism, arthritis, and menstrual problems. Texts like the Charaka Samhita describe guggul as a cleansing and rejuvenating agent used to “scrape” toxins and excess fat from the body and stimulate the metabolism.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), myrrh is used to invigorate blood, reduce swelling, and relieve pain, especially in trauma and joint disorders. It is often paired with frankincense (Boswellia) in formulas for arthritis, bruises, and menstrual cramps.
Today, Commiphora resins—especially myrrh and guggul—are included in modern herbal and integrative therapies for inflammation, cholesterol management, immune defense, and oral care, serving as powerful examples of how traditional plant resins continue to influence modern health practices.
Commiphora is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Asthma (Traditional)
Bleeding (external) (Traditional)
Boils (Traditional)
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Bruises (healing) (Traditional)
Burns and Scalds (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Canker Sores (Traditional)
Carbuncles (Traditional)
Cardiovascular Disease (Traditional)
Chest Pain (Traditional)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Colds (antiviral) (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Conjunctivitis (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Dandruff (Traditional)
Depression (Traditional)
Dermatitis (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Edema (Traditional)
Emotional Sensitivity (Traditional)
Energy (lack of) (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Fungal Infections (Traditional)
Gas and Bloating (Traditional)
Gastritis (Traditional)
Gingivitis (Traditional)
Glands (swollen lymph) (Traditional)
Gout (Traditional)
Headache (general) (Traditional)
Headache (sinus) (Traditional)
Headache (tension) (Traditional)
Heart (weakness) (Traditional)
Hemorrhoids (Traditional)
Hepatitis (Traditional)
Herpes (Traditional)
Inflammation (Scientific)
commiphora is used to support these body systems
Arteries (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Gums (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Thyroid Gland (Traditional)
