Myrtle (Myrtus communis) is a member of the Myrtaceae plant family and is botanically related to eucalyptus and tea tree. The leaves and berries of myrtle have historically been used to treat diarrhea and dysentery; Dioscorides, the ancient Greek, recommended the use of a macerated myrtle leaves extract (in wine) for bladder and lung infections.
The Ancient Uses of Myrtle
The Greek goddess of love, Aphrodite, was revered with offerings of myrtle in the form of incense; myrtle's Greek association with love is continued today in the inclusion of myrtle in Greek bridal bouquets. In fact, myrtle was also included in the wedding bouquet of Queen Victoria of England in 1840. Myrtle is a traditional Mediterranean remedy to regulate the menstrual cycle; myrtle was also used in skin preparations, including a 16th century skin care remedy which used the leaves and flowers of myrtle.
The Characteristics of Myrtle
Myrtle is a native plant of North Africa and is commonly found growing in the southern Mediterranean region including France, Spain, Corsica, Tunisia and Italy. Myrtle is a small tree or large bush (of up to three feet in height) with pointed leaves, white flowers and black berries; it is the leaves and flowers of myrtle which are aromatic. Myrtle essential oil is extracted by steam distillation of the leaves and twigs which produces a pale yellow essential oil, similar to eucalyptus in fragrance.
Uses of Myrtle Essential Oil in Aromatherapy
Myrtle essential oil is largely used for its antiseptic properties; however, myrtle essential oil is also astringent, bactericidal, expectorant, toning and an anti-depressant. Myrtle essential oil can be used in aromatherapy to treat oily skin, acne, mature skin, coughs, anxiety, colds, infections, asthma, bronchitis, pulmonary and urinary infections.
Cautions for Using Myrtle Essential Oil
Myrtle essential oil is considered to be non-sensitizing, non-toxic and a non-irritant; myrtle is a comparatively gentle oil due to its chemical make-up. The principal chemical component of myrtle essential oil is alcohol; alcohol components include cineol, geraniol, myrtenol and linalol. Other chemical components include pinene and camphene.
Due to the high alcohol content of myrtle essential oil, it is considered a gentle essential oil which is suitable for use with children and the elderly, especially in the treatment of coughs and chest complaints. However, as is the case when unfamiliar in the use of any essential oils, care should be taken and professional advice sought.
References:
Davis, Patricia 1999 Aromatherapy An A-Z UK: Vermilion
Harding, Jennie 2005 Aromatherapy Massage for You UK: Duncan Baird Publishers
Lawless, Julia 1995 The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils UK:Thorsons
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