Evidence supporting the use of: Myrrh
For the health condition: Ear Infection or Earache
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1
Myrrh has a long history of use in traditional medicine, including in the treatment of ear infections and earaches. Ancient medical texts from various cultures, particularly in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, describe using myrrh resin—often in the form of infusions, oils, or poultices—for its purported antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and analgesic properties. The rationale behind myrrh's application for ear complaints stems from its known use as a remedy for wounds and infections, given its ability to inhibit bacterial and fungal growth in laboratory studies.
However, while myrrh is a staple in herbal and folk medicine for treating minor infections, there is scant direct scientific evidence supporting its efficacy or safety specifically for ear infections (otitis media or otitis externa) in humans. Most evidence is anecdotal or based on in vitro studies demonstrating activity against certain pathogens. There have been no robust clinical trials evaluating myrrh's effectiveness or safety profile when used in or around the ear. Modern medical guidelines do not recommend myrrh for ear infections, instead favoring evidence-based treatments such as antibiotics or analgesics as appropriate.
In summary, myrrh’s use for ear infections or earache is rooted primarily in tradition, with minimal scientific validation for this specific indication.
Other ingredients used for Ear Infection or Earache
myrobalanbetel
blackberry
chamomile
Coptis chinensis
forsythia
garlic bulb
ginger
goldenseal
onion
Indian tinospora
mustard seed
oregano
plantain
rosemary
schizonepeta
sphaeranthus indicus
thyme
xylitol
mullein
xanthium (cockleburs)
gastrodia
papaya
Indian bael
neem tree
nut grass
alpinia galangal
clerodendrum indicum
ferula assafoetida
hedychium spicatum
anise
blackboard tree
caesalpinia crista
myrrh
sweet flag
sweetgums
morinda
zanthoxylum
eucalyptus
paw paw
melaleuca alternifolia
indigo leaves
geranium
Achyranthes
Anamu
Alchornea
Asafoetida
Aerva lanata
Alsonia scholaris
Asteracea
Abuta
Amor seco
Blepharis
Balsam
Bishop's Weed
Butea monosperma
Barleria
Bitter Grass
Bombax
Bergenia
Borneol
Coconut
Calendula
Cinnamomum
Calotropis gigantea
Cajuput
Centipeda
Calamus
Costus
Celosia
Didymocarpus
DIVI-DIVI
Devil's Club
Erodium cicutarium
Elephant's Head
Euphorbia
Eugenol
Goldthread
Garlic
Little ironweed
Mallow
Poppy
Vervain
Other health conditions supported by myrrh
Abdominal PainAbrasions
Abscesses
Afterbirth Pain
Antibiotics (alternatives to)
Appetite (deficient)
Arthritis
Asthma
Bleeding (external)
Boils
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cancer (natural therapy for)
Cancer (prevention)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects)
Canker Sores
Cuts
Diarrhea
Digestion (poor)
Dyspepsia
Ear Infection or Earache
Emphysema
Fever
Gall Bladder (sluggish or removed)
Gingivitis
Glands (swollen lymph)
Gonorrhea
Gout
Headache (general)
Headache (sinus)
Hemorrhoids
Hepatitis
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Inflammation
Inflammatory Bowel Disorders
Influenza
Injuries
Kidney Infection
Liver Detoxification