the power of Frankincense and Myrrh
During this season, it makes sense to highlight the power of Frankincense and Myrrh.
Both are herbal remedies that have been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. In fact, they have traditionally been considered very valuable and worth a lot.
In the Christmas story of Jesus’ birth, the three wisemen traveled far by guidance of a star to visit the Savior. They brought gifts worthy of a king which included gold, frankincense and myrrh. All I’m saying is…if it is worthy for the Savior of the world, KING JESUS, then there must be something special about these herbs.
Did you know that both Frankincense and Myrrh are resins that are extracted from tree sap. Frankincense (also known as Boswellia) has been used traditionally to help treat inflammation, fight infection, support healthy respiratory function and is currently being researched in western medicine for its treatment of cancer, specifically certain breast cancers and leukemia (Dr.Friso, Cornell University).
Boswellia was used in a 2011 trial to see how it can be used in treatment for breast cancer. The study showed prolific results in treatment. In fact, it was, “shown to induce tumor cell cytotoxicity in a drug resistant and metastasized breast cancer case”. This is an amazing discovery! Think about it…an ancient herb that has these properties can be used to suppress aggressive breast cancers and be a solution for many patients struggling with treatment-resistant cancers.
Now let's look at Myrrh which has incredibly potent anti-microbial properties. It’s been used (traditionally) to help support fast healing from various difficult viruses, bacterias and fungus. In a study published in 2020, Myrrh was shown to be a, “commercially viable antibiotic that kills persister cells and causes no resistance development. This is a rare example of an antibiotic that can preferentially kill nongrowing bacteria”. This is a big deal as it could be a great option for those who have taken many antibiotics in their day - which can cause stubborn bacterias to flourish.
Myrrh also has been known for its strong assistance in wound healing and skin health. The Terpenoids are the active bio-chemicals found in Myrrh which contribute to its increased speed of healing wounds and skin irritations.
All of this to say, we are only scratching the surface of the healing power of these two famous herbs. The science we have gathered thus far in understanding the healing properties of both Frankincense and Myrrh is just trying to explain the knowledge that ancient civilizations have known for centuries. The findings we have seen are fascinating and we must continue to research the potential these herbs can offer for many diseases we face today.
Now knowing how incredibly powerful Frankincense and Myrrh are, if these herbs are something you’d like to test and see if they would be beneficial for you this season, let’s talk about them at your next appointment.
** As always, never experiment with new herbs, especially as strong as these, without getting tested first!
CITED STUDIES:
Suhail, Mahmoud M, et al. “Boswellia Sacra Essential Oil Induces Tumor Cell-Specific Apoptosis and Suppresses Tumor Aggressiveness in Cultured Human Breast Cancer Cells.” BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 15 Dec. 2011.
Bhattacharjee, Mrinal K, and Tahrir Alenezi. “Antibiotic in Myrrh from Commiphora Molmol Preferentially Kills Nongrowing Bacteria.” Future Science OA, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 20 Feb. 2020.
Gebrehiwot, Michael, et al. “Evaluation of the Wound Healing Property of Commiphora Guidottii Chiov. Ex. GUID” BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 18 Aug. 2015.