A Healthy Relationship With Myrtle

Myrtle is the common term used for a family of shrubs and trees collectively known as Myrtaceae. This plant group is almost entirely located in tropical regions, most prominently in America and Australia. Additionally, myrtle can be found growing in Iran, North Africa and in the Mediterranean.

The Myrtle Tree

Myrtle trees are distinguished by the evergreen leaves that contain those valuable and aromatic volatile oils. Many varieties of myrtle produce gums, resins and flashy blossoms. The myrtle tree also produces black berries which, along with the leaves, are used in aromatherapy applications.

Health Advantages of Myrtle

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.

Conventionally, myrtle was used to treat coughs and various types of respiratory infections, such as bronchitis. Thanks to its astringent properties, it has also gained a reputation for promoting good digestion, treating urinary tract disorders, and prevention infections in wounds. According to recent laboratory studies, the herb contains substances that are anti-inflammatory, making it a good astringent compound. This likely accounts for the plant's enduring use for wounds and coughs.

In addition to offering healing properties, myrtle is said to be a good anti-infective tonic used to speed up the healing process. Traditional healers in the Middle East have long believed that myrtle is a useful herb for treating diabetes.

The 1980s saw scientists putting the myrtle herb under the microscope in an attempt to identify the active ingredients that lends it its various medicinal properties. Results of one study indicated that extract from the herb can decrease blood sugar in mice. This explains the association associating myrtle with diabetes. However, there is still no concrete proof that the herb is safe to use and effective for people who have the disease.

Using Myrtle

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.

Although uncommon, topical myrtle extract formulations can also be used. Again, be sure to use this herbal treatment only under your doctor's supervision.

If using myrtle, be sure that you are able to distinguish between the two types of plants. The "true" myrtle plant, myrtus communis, is the one with beneficial properties. "Madagascara Myrtle" is another plant altogether, and it has completely different effects on the body.

It is believed that myrtle can be beneficial when taken with other herbs and nutritional supplements, but it should not be taken if you are using insulin or oral sulfonylureas. This powerful herb may increase the blood glucose and lower the effects of these medications.