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The Miracle of Myrtle

Myrtle is the common term used for a family of shrubs and trees collectively known as Myrtaceae. This plant group is almost entirely located in tropical regions, most prominently in America and Australia. Additionally, myrtle can be found growing in Iran, North Africa and in the Mediterranean.

The Myrtle Tree

Myrtle trees are distinguished by the evergreen leaves that contain those valuable and aromatic volatile oils. Many varieties of myrtle produce gums, resins and flashy blossoms. The myrtle tree also produces black berries which, along with the leaves, are used in aromatherapy applications.

Health Advantages of Myrtle

Applications of myrtle for health benefits can be traced back to the time of ancient Greece. It is believed that the evergreen wreaths worn by Greek athletes during the Olympics were actually made of myrtle leaves. The Greeks believed that myrtle signified immortality, and so the plant derivatives were used it in many love potions, as well as in treatments for various ailments.

In the era of the Roman Empire, myrtle was used to treat urinary and respiratory ailments. Egyptians used the plant to treat nervous afflictions. French women drank tea made from crushed myrtle leaves, believing that it would help to preserve their youthful appearance and overall vigor. Some actually believed myrtle to hold a cure for cancer, but little evidence was found to prove the theory.

Conventionally, myrtle was used to treat coughs and various types of respiratory infections, such as bronchitis. Thanks to its astringent properties, it has also gained a reputation for promoting good digestion, treating urinary tract disorders, and prevention infections in wounds. According to recent laboratory studies, the herb contains substances that are anti-inflammatory, making it a good astringent compound. This likely accounts for the plant's enduring use for wounds and coughs.

In addition to offering healing properties, myrtle is said to be a good anti-infective tonic used to speed up the healing process. Traditional healers in the Middle East have long believed that myrtle is a useful herb for treating diabetes.

Scientists in the 1980s put myrtle under the microscope in an attempt to identify the active ingredients that give the plant so many medicinal properties. There were indications from one study that herbal extracts of myrtle can decrease the blood sugar found in mice. This offers an explanation as to the association associating of myrtle with diabetes. It's important to note, however, that there is still no concrete proof that myrtle is safe to use and effective for people who have the disease.

Directions for Use

Myrtle extract is created from plant's leaves and seeds. Most tests have shown positive results if the plant extract is taken orally and in liquid form. A standard dose is usually around one to two milliliters of the essential oil daily. Be sure that you ask your doctor first before taking it.

Topical formulations are also used although not common. Again, make sure to use this plant only under your doctor's supervision.

There are two types of myrtle, and it's important that you do not confuse the two. Myrtus communis is known as "true" myrtle, and is the plant described here. The other variety, called "Madagascar Myrtle" (Eugenia jambolana), is a completely different plant and has entirely different effects on the body.

Myrtle is understood to work well with other herbs and nutritional supplements. However, do not use it if you're taking insulin or oral sulfonylureas. The herb may increase the blood glucose, lowering the effect of these medications.