Native to North Africa and the warmer climes of Europe, myrtle is a small flowering tree with spear-like green leaves and blooms that turn into dark berries. The plant's leaves and twigs are the source of myrtle essential oil. Sometimes compared to cajeput and eucalyptus, myrtle carries a clear, subtly floral scent. Appreciated for its cleansing properties, myrtle is sometimes used in skin care products and is also valued for supporting clear breathing.
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County of Origin | Morocco |
Botanical Family | Myrtaceae |
Therapeutic Properties | Anti-infectious, anti-septic, anti-spasmodic, carminative, cephalic, expectorant, stomachic |
Chemical Family | Esters, Monterpenes, Oxides |
Approx. Shelf Life | 5 years |
Plant Parts | Leaf, Fruit |
Note Classification | Middle |
Method of Extraction | Steam Distilled |
Blends well with | Bay, Bergamot, Black Pepper, Cajeput, Chamomile, Clary Sage, Clove, Coriander, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Ginger, Helichrysum, Lavender, Lemon, Lemongrass, Lime, Palma Rosa, Rosewood, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Thyme |
% Chemical Compound | 1,8-Cineole 30.00 alpha-Pinene 24.00 Myrtenyl acetate 20.00 Limonene 14.00 delta-Cadinene 2.50 Linalyl acetate 1.10 Linalool 1.10 Bornyl acetate 1.00 Geranyl 2-methylbutyrate 0.90 Methyl eugenol 0.50 gamma-Terpinene 0.50 |
History: Since antiquity the leaves have been used for perfumes and food. The leaves and flowers were a major ingredient in "angel's water," a sixteenth century skin care lotion. Myrtle was a symbol of love because it was used in bridal bouquets or headdresses and and the bridesmaids were to plant their myrtle to bring them love. Leaves are still found in potpourri and the oil is still used in cosmetics and perfumes.
Characteristics: A middle note with a medium aroma, Myrtle Essential Oil has a clear, fresh scent that is mildly camphoraceous, similar to that of Eucalyptus.
Clinical Studies:
Indications: Used to calm, open sinus and breathing passages, uplift moods, refresh, help meditate, relieve pain. Is best known for helping respiratory problems. It benefits smoker's cough, bronchitis, flu, colds, and sinus infection, As a disinfectant, Myrtle Oil helps uterine infection, skin healing, and deodorizing.
Personality Profile:
Subtle Aromatherapy:
Mode of Administration: Aroma lamp, bath, compress, diffusor, inhaler, light bulb ring, liquid candle, massage, mist spray, salve, steam inhalation.
Safety: Nontoxic.