Description
Refer to MYRRH, GUM.
Chemical Properties
Myrrh oil is obtained from the gum by steam distillation; it is a light brown or
green liquid with the characteristic odor of the gum.
d2525 0.995–1.014; n20D 1.5190–1.5275; α20D ?83 ° to ?60 °; acid number: 2–13;
saponification number: 9–35; solubility: 1 vol in 7–10 vol of 90% ethanol; solutions
are occasionally opalescent or turbid.
Typical aroma-determining compounds of themyrrh plant are furanosesquiterpenoids
such as (?)-lindestrene. Myrrh oil and myrrh
resinoids are used in perfume compositions to create oriental notes.Myrrh extract
and Myrrh tincture are also utilized in oral care and corresponding preparations.
Chemical Properties
The oil, obtained by steam distillation of the gum, in approximately 3 to 8% yields. It has a pungent, balsamic, warm
odor and corresponding flavor. The oil tends to darken and thicken on exposure to air and light.
Physical properties
The oil is a light-brown to green liquid. It is soluble in most fixed oils, but is only slightly soluble
in mineral oil. It is insoluble in glycerin and in propylene glycol. Under the influence of air and light, the oil becomes darker in color
and more viscous
Occurrence
Found in several species of gum-resin Commiphora (fam. Burseraceae), mainly C. myrrha, C. abyssinica and C. schiniperi.
Uses
Myrrh traditionally has been used internally to treat upper respiratory congestion, pharyngitis, gingivitis, mouth ulcers, stomatitis, leprosy, syphilis, and leg ulcers. Topically, it is used to treat wounds, decubitus ulcers, and hemorrhoids. Contemporary use is mostly limited to fl avoring in foods and fragrance in cosmetic products.
Definition
Extractives and their physically modified derivatives. Commiphora, Burseraceae.
Preparation
By steam distillation of the gum.
Essential oil composition
Main constituents include d-pinene, dipentene, limonene, cinnamaldehyde, cuminaldehyde, eugenol,
m-cresol, sesquiterpenes and formic and acetic acids.
