Botanical Name: Commiphora erythraea
Plant Part: Crude Resin
Extraction Method: Steam
Origin: Somalia

Description: It has a branching stem growing about 1 to 3 feet high, thick and rough near the base. Leaves pinnate, with long petioles and large serrate leaflets, the terminal one cordite, the rest deficient at the base, hairy underneath. The oleo resin is procured by cutting into the stem at the base. When sun-dried, the juice that exudes forms the opoponax essential oil of commerce. A warm climate is necessary to produce an oleo gum resin of the first quality. For this reason, the oil from France is deemed inferior. In commerce it is sometimes found in tears, but usually in small, irregular pieces.

Colour: Yellow to Light Red

Common Uses: Alterative, analgesic, antifungal, antiseptic, astringent, carminative, emmenagogue, expectorant, antispasmodic, disinfectant, immune stimulant, circulatory stimulant, stomachic, tonic, vulnerary. It is useful for amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, menopause, uterine tumors, as it purges stagnant blood out of the uterus. Good for obesity and diabetes. Myrrh is commonly used in Chinese medicine for rheumatism, arthritis and circulatory problems. Antispasmodic, deobstruent. It is now regarded as a medium of feeble powers, but was formerly considered of service as an emmenagogue also in asthma, chronic visceral affections, hysteria and hypochondriasis. It is employed in perfumery.

Consistency: Thin to Medium

Note: Middle

Strength of Aroma: Medium

Blends well with: Opoponax blends well with Frankincense, Sandalwood, Benzoin, Oak Moss, Cypress, Juniper, Mandarin, Geranium, Patchouli, Thyme, Mints, Lavender, Pine and Spices.

Aromatic Scent:Opoponax has a bittersweet undertone with some herbaceousness.

History:A cousin of the healing Myrrh we have always offered, this sweet Myrrh is most likely the Myrrh spoken of in the Song of Solomon. Unlike our healing Myrrh, this has a sweeter, softer and longer lasting aroma, very different from the sharp freshness of Myrrh Oil. It has been a component of incense and perfumes since Biblical times.