Myrrh
Commiphora myrrha (C. molmol)
T Traditional useEMA recognises myrrh tincture as a traditional external remedy for mouth ulcers, gum inflammation and minor wounds. Not recommended under 12 or in pregnancy.
MyrrhOn this page
At a glance
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha, C. molmol) is a fragrant gum resin that seeps from trees of Arabia and East Africa. EMA recognises the traditional use of alcoholic myrrh tincture for minor mouth ulcers, gum inflammation, minor wounds and small boils. It is used only in the mouth and on the skin.
Updated: October 24, 2026
Sources include an EMA HMPC monograph. Its scope is limited to the specified species, plant part and preparation; this is not professional approval.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Documents traditional use, not clinical efficacy or safety for everyone.
How do we rate evidence levels? →EMA recognises myrrh tincture as a traditional herbal medicinal product for minor ulcers and inflammation in the mouth (stomatitis and gingivitis), used as a rinse or applied directly. [1]
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Documents traditional use, not clinical efficacy or safety for everyone.
How do we rate evidence levels? →EMA recognises myrrh tincture applied to the skin as a traditional use for minor wounds and small boils (furuncles). [1]
How is it used?
Gargle
For the mouth, the tincture is diluted in water and used as a rinse or gargle, or dabbed undiluted onto the sore with a cotton bud. See a doctor if symptoms last more than 1 week.
Amount: 0.5–5 ml tincture in 150 ml water, 3 times a day; or undiluted tincture 2–3 times a day
Duration limit: 1 week
[1]Topical
The tincture is dabbed onto a minor wound or boil with cotton. See a doctor if fever or signs of a worsening infection appear.
Amount: Undiluted or water-diluted tincture, 2–3 times a day
Duration limit: 1 week
[1]Safety & interactions
⚠ External use only
Minimum age: 12 years
Duration limit: 7 days
- The tincture contains a high level of alcohol (made with 90% ethanol); it may cause temporary burning or irritation where applied.
- Not recommended for children under 12 due to lack of data.
- Not recommended in pregnancy or breastfeeding because safety has not been established.
- Boils on the face should be treated by a doctor.
- Avoid contact with the eyes.
- See a doctor if there is fever, spreading redness or symptoms lasting more than 1 week.
Drug interactions
No recorded interactions
Side effects
- Allergic skin reactions
- Temporary burning and irritation of the mouth or skin due to alcohol
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Frequently asked questions
Is myrrh good for mouth ulcers?
EMA recognises myrrh tincture as a traditional rinse or dab for minor ulcers and inflammation in the mouth. See a doctor for ulcers lasting more than a week.
Is myrrh good for gum inflammation?
EMA recognises the traditional use of myrrh tincture for gum inflammation (gingivitis). See a dentist if your gums keep bleeding.
Is myrrh the same as frankincense?
No. Myrrh comes from Commiphora species and frankincense from Boswellia species; they are different resins.
Can you swallow myrrh?
The EMA assessment covers only rinsing/dabbing in the mouth and applying to the skin. Do not swallow the tincture.
Can I use myrrh while pregnant?
EMA does not recommend use in pregnancy or breastfeeding because safety has not been established.
Sources
Source type is not an efficacy rating. A monograph may document traditional use or safety. Claim numbers link to the relevant source; the access date does not indicate professional approval.
- Community herbal monograph on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resinaEMA HMPC · 2011 · MonographSource accessed:
Cite This Page
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha (C. molmol)). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/myrrh/
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