Dosages and Applications of Myrrh

As the resins in myrrh do not readily dissolve in water, the best way to prepare myrrh is in tincture form. Tinctured myrrh is typically made in a 1:5 ratio meaning 1 part myrrh and 5 parts menstrum. The menstrum used in this particular tincture is 90% ethanol alcohol, and 10% water. The tincture preparation of myrrh is indicated for use as a gargle or mouthwash. 5 to 10 drops (one-sixteenth to one-eighth of a teaspoon) added to 8 ounces of water is the standard dosage for both these uses. Myrrh tincture can also be applied straight on sore gums, lip or mouth tissue up to three times daily. The diluted tincture, which can be made or bought commercially, can be used as a skin wash or as a vaginal douche for thrush. Amounts for these applications vary (E Drug Digest). The tincture of myrrh can also be used for infections, feverish conditions from head colds to glandular fevers, respiratory conditions and as an ingredient in expectorant preparations (Purple Sage). It can also be used undiluted as a paint for ulcers and wounds (Heilpflanzen).

Diluted myrrh essential oil consisting of 10 drops myrrh and 25 ml water, can be applied to wounds and chronic ulcers. It can also be added to a lotion that is used to treat hemorrhoids. 1 ml oil in 15 ml almond or sunflower oil is an excellent chest rub for bronchitis and colds with thick phlegm. A preparation used for vaginal thrush can be made by using 10 drops of the oil and 30 grams of cocoa butter and formed into twenty-four pessaries. An infusion of myrrh can be made by powdering 1 to 2 teaspoons of myrrh, pouring over it a cup of boiled water and letting it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. One cup three times a day would be the optimal dosage for feverish or phlegm conditions or when the immune system is low.

Another way of taking myrrh is in capsule form. One 200 mg capsule can be taken up to five times a day as an alternative to the tincture or infusion for internal usage (Purple Sage). Although it may be more palatable to take myrrh in this form, the benefits of taking any herb are thought to be more effective when the herb is tasted. This is because taste stimulates the glands in the mouth and the herb often diffuses into the blood stream through the capillaries in the mouth.