Myrtle Oil
Proven health benefits of myrtle oil:
- Regulates blood sugar levels.
- Accelerates wound healing.
- Improves skin appearance.
- Boosts brain health.
- Treats respiratory illnesses.
- Maintains nerves stability.
What is myrtle oil?
Myrtle oil is derived from (myrtle collumis) plant species of the Myrtaceae family native to the Mediterranean and Asia region. The myrtle tree is an evergreen shrub that grows to a height of between 3-7m, characterized by sharp-pointed leaves, brown bark, and white flowers.1
Myrtle oil production involves a process of steam distillation of the twigs, flowers, and leaves. Myrtle essential oil occurs in two varieties depending on the chemical composition. Green myrtle oil contains more monoterpene a- Pinene, while the Red myrtle oil contains more oxide 1.8 cineole. The oil is pale yellow or orange-yellow with a spicy, floral, and herbaceous scent. 2
What is myrtle oil useful for?
For centuries, myrtle oil has been used for its therapeutic purposes for its cleansing, uplifting and refreshing properties. In ancient Persia and Greece, myrtle was perceived to be a sacred plant symbolizing peace and love.
Myrtle oil is famous for its expectorant, antiseptic, anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, and decongestant properties. In aromatherapy, it is effective in easing anxiety and reducing stress. Myrtle reduces respiratory problems such as asthma, coughs, bronchitis . It is also used to flavor alcoholic drinks and beverages.3
Health Benefits:
- Treats respiratory illnesses by soothing the respiratory tract, removing excess mucus, and lessens irritation hence effective as a remedy for breathing difficulties and night-time coughs.
- Regulates blood sugar levels by reducing the glucose plasma levels due to the presence of myricetins flavanols.
- Promotes wound healing by inhibiting infections and killing bacteria in cuts due to its antiseptic properties.
- Improves skin appearance by clearing up acne, tightening pores, reducing irritation, and making the skin heal faster
- Boosts brain health by inhibiting the formation of beta-amyloid fibril responsible for neurotoxicity due as it contains myricetins.
- Maintains nerves stability, thereby preventing nervousness, neurotic disorders, stress, and fear.
- Eases breathing by countering the accumulation of catarrh and phlegm in the respiratory tract.
Nutrition
Myrtle contains:
- Pinene - 51.2%
- Cineole 1.8 - 23%
- Limonene - 6.3%
- Terpineol - 3.7%
- Linalool - 3.6%
In addition, myrtle contains terponolene, carene and geranyl acetate.
Toxicity:
Children below the age of 6 years, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using myrtle oil.