Myrrh

Description

An aromatic gum-resin obtained from Commiphora species (such as C. malmol, C. abyssinica, and C. myrrha) native to India, Arabia and northeast Africa. Myrrh contains approximately 20-25% resin (mostly triterpenoids), 57-61% gum and 7-17% volatile oils. The translucent yellow resins has been used for incense and perfumes since ancient times.

Synonyms and Related Terms

mirra (Esp.); mirra (It); malmul; ogo; herabol; sweet myrrh; bisabol myrrh

Physical and Chemical Properties

Partially soluble (resin portion) in ethanol. Partially soluble (gum portion) in water.

Resources and Citations

• M.Serpico, R.White, "Resins, Amber and Bitumen" in Ancient Egyptian Materials and Technology, P.Nicholson, I.Shaw (eds.), Cambridge University Press, 2000, p. 430-474.