Myrtle Myrtus communis
Myrtus communis flower
- Common Names
- Myrtle
- Botanical Name
- Myrtus communis
- Family
- MYRTACEAE
Medicinal Uses & Benefits of Myrtle
How to Use|
Side Effects |
Plant & Garden|
Aromatherapy Oil |
- Medicinal Uses: * Aromatherapy
* Bronchitis
- Properties: * Antibacterial * Antirheumatic * AntiViral * Aromatic * Astringent * Astringent * Calm * Carminative * Cordial * Rubefacient * Stimulant * Stomachic
- Parts Used: Leaf and berries
How to Use: Myrtle
The leaves of the myrtle tree are very aromatic and the plant has a number of medicinal uses. In traditional herbal medicine myrtle has been taken internally for urinary infections, digestive problems, bronchial congestion, and dry coughs. In Ayurveda it is seen as a treatment for cerebral infections, most notably epilepsy. Myrtle has also been used at various times as an astringent, an antiseptic and a decongestant. 1
Preparation Methods & Dosage :Myrtle leaves can be used in teas. The essential oil is used in aromatherapy.
Myrtle Remedies
Myrtle : Essential Oil Profile
The oil has a distinct, spicy, camphor-like aroma. The better oils exhibit a sweeter, fresher note.
In the Kitchen: Myrtle leaves can be used as a tea, and can be substituted for bay leaves in cooking. Myrtle branches can be used as firewood, for grilling it transmits a spicy aromatic flavor to meats and vegetables.
Myrtle Side Effects: Avoid in pregnancy
Plant Description
Myrtle flowers and leaves
- Flowers:5 petal star like flower, usually white
- Plant Class:Flowering Evergreen Shrub
- Leaves: Fragrant with essential oil, 3-5 cm long
- Fruit: Edible blue-purple berries with several seeds.
- Preferred Habitat:
- Flowering Season:
- Distribution:Native to the Mediterranean, Southern Europe and Northern Africa
History and Traditions & Folklore
The ancient Egyptians used to crush the leaves and add them to wine to treat fever and infection. Dioscorides used the same recipe for stomach, bladder and pulmonary infections. Myrtle was first introduced into Britain in 1597, and was used in the nineteenth century for bronchial infections, genitourinary problems, and hemorrhoids. (Walji, H.,114)
Works CitedLooking for Aroma Therapy? Visit Annies Aroma Therapy
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