Myrtle Trees

Myrtle is distinguished by evergreen leaves that contain aromatic volatile oils. Many varieties of myrtle produce flashy blossoms, gums, and resins. The tree produces black berries which, along with the leaves, are used particularly for aromatherapy.

Health Benefits

In as far back as ancient Greece, people cherished the application of myrtle. Greek athletes were said to have worn wreaths of evergreen myrtle leaves during the Olympics. Ancient civilizations believed that myrtle was a symbol of immortality, and they used it in love potions and as treatment for various ailments.

In the era of the Roman Empire, myrtle was used to treat urinary and respiratory ailments. Egyptians used the plant to treat nervous afflictions. French women drank tea made from crushed myrtle leaves, believing that it would help to preserve their youthful appearance and overall vigor. Some actually believed myrtle to hold a cure for cancer, but little evidence was found to prove the theory.

More recently, myrtle has been used to treat coughs and respiratory ailments including bronchitis. Myrtle has strong astringent properties that make it quite useful in preventing infections, promoting good digestion and treating urinary tract disorders. There are recent laboratory studies that indicate anti-inflammatory substances in myrtle, making it a useful astringent compound. This is likely why the plant is still used to treat wounds and coughs.

In addition to healing wounds, myrtle is said to be anti-infective and is a good tonic for speeding up the healing process. In the Middle East, it has long been perceived by traditional healers as a useful herb for diabetes.

Scientists in the 1980s put myrtle under the microscope in an attempt to identify the active ingredients that give the plant so many medicinal properties. There were indications from one study that herbal extracts of myrtle can decrease the blood sugar found in mice. This offers an explanation as to the association associating of myrtle with diabetes. It's important to note, however, that there is still no concrete proof that myrtle is safe to use and effective for people who have the disease.

Myrtle Extract

Myrtle extract is taken from the seeds and leaves of the plant. Tests have shown positive results if the plant extract is taken orally in liquid form. A standard dose is one to two milliliters of the essential oil taken daily. It's important to note that you should always speak with your doctor before taking myrtle extract.

Topical formulations are also used although not common. Again, make sure to use this plant only under your doctor's supervision.

There are two types of myrtle, and it's important that you do not confuse the two. Myrtus communis is known as "true" myrtle, and is the plant described here. The other variety, called "Madagascar Myrtle" (Eugenia jambolana), is a completely different plant and has entirely different effects on the body.

Myrtle is believed to work well with other herbs and nutritional supplements. However, it should not be used if you are taking insulin or oral sulfonylureas. The herb may increase the levels of blood glucose, and reduce the effects of your medications.