Myrtle
Botanical name:
Family:
Common names:
Geographic origin:
Cultivation:
Extraction method:
Place of manufacture:
Date of manufacture:
Plant parts used:
Note classification:
Shelf life:
Myrtus communis
Myrtaceae
True myrtle, green myrtle
South-West Turkey
Wild harvested
Steam distillation
Gökova, Turkey
November 2024
Leaves
Middle/top
5 years
Description
Myrtle, also known as green myrtle, is an evergreen shrub native to Southern Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, reaching up to 5 meters in height. With its fragrant white or pink flowers and lush deep green leaves, myrtle has been treasured for centuries for both its aromatic and medicinal properties. The dried and fresh leaves of myrtle have been traditionally used for healing and as a flavorful spice. Even its bark and roots have found use in tanning leather.
A Plant Steeped in History and Mythology
In Greek mythology, myrtle was linked to Aphrodite, the goddess of beauty and love, symbolizing elegance and romance. In ancient Persia, myrtle was considered a sacred plant, while in 16th-century Europe, it was a key ingredient in the famous skin lotion known as "angel water."
Pure, Wildcrafted, and Rich in Aroma
At Goya Botanicals, we source our Myrtle Essential Oil from the wild harvested myrtle leaves found in the pristine mountains of southwest Turkey. We use unpressurized steam distillation to preserve the highest quality of the oil, which is rich in beneficial compounds like α-pinene, 1,8-cineole (Eucalyptol), and linalool. This results in a floral, herbaceous aroma that is both calming and invigorating.
Uses & Benefits
Myrtle has various applications in the food industry, where it is utilized for flavoring meats and sauces. Additionally, it is employed in the perfumery and cosmetic industries due to its aromatic properties. In traditional medicine, myrtle is well-known for its antiseptic, disinfectant, and hypoglycemic effects. Historically, in ancient Egypt and Greece, myrtle was used to treat a range of ailments, including respiratory complaints, diarrhea, urinary disorders, menstrual issues, and bites from venomous spiders and scorpions.
The essential oil derived from myrtle is used internally to address conditions such as bronchitis, tuberculosis, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, and prostatitis. Due to its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and wound-healing properties, myrtle essential oil is also beneficial for alleviating pain and reducing the size of ulcers in cases of minor recurrent aphthous stomatitis. Furthermore, it is considered a safe skin-soothing agent effective in treating acne by diminishing erythema.
Recent studies have demonstrated that myrtle essential oil is an effective insect repellent.
Technical Documents
References & Disclaimer
Essential oils are highly concentrated, powerful herbal extracts derived from various plant sources. Due to their potent chemical compositions, they may exhibit strong biological and physiological effects on the body. The above information is drawn from available scientific research and traditional knowledge, as referenced in the accompanying list of sources. It is important to note that this content is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment for any health condition.
While essential oils have been used for centuries in wellness practices, their effects can vary widely depending on factors such as individual health, application methods, and the specific oil in question. Therefore, Goya Botanicals does not assume responsibility for any adverse effects or harm that may result from the use of, or reliance upon, the information provided here. We strongly encourage users to consult with healthcare professionals before incorporating essential oils into any health regimen, especially in cases of pre-existing medical conditions, pregnancy, or for use with children.
-
Chalchat, J. C., Garry, R. P., & Michet, A. (1998). Essential oil of Myrtle (Myrtus communis L.) of the Mediterranean Littoral. Journal of Essential Oil Research, 10, 613–617.
-
Elfellah, M. S., Akhter, M. H., Khan, M.T. (1984). Anti-hyperglycaemic effect of an extract of Myrtus communis in streptozotocin induced diabetes in mice. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 11, 275–281.
-
Sisai, M., Gashaw, T. (2017). Ethnobotanical, ethnopharmacological, and phytochemical studies of Myrtus communis Linn.: A popular herb in Unani system of medicine. Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 22, 1035–1043.
-
Mahboubi, M. (2017). Effectiveness of Myrtus communis in the treatment of hemorrhoids. Review of Integrative Medicine, 15, 351–358.
-
Mahboubi, M. (2016). Myrtus communis L. and its application in treatment of recurrent aphthous stomatitis. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 193, 481–489.
-
Kim, K.Y., Jang, H.H., Lee, S.N. et al. (2018). Effects of the myrtle essential oil on the acne skin clinical trials for Korean women. biomed Dermatol, 2, 28.
-
Hennia, A., Nemmiche, S., Dandlen, S., Miguel, M.G. (2019). Myrtus communis essential oils: Insecticidal, antioxidant and antimicrobial activities: a review. Journal of Essential Oil Research.
