A Healthy Relationship with Myrtle

Myrtle is a wonder herb derived from a family of shrubs and trees collectively known as Myrtaceae. These plants are almost entirely located in tropical regions including Australia and America. Myrtle can also be found growing in North Africa, Iran and in the Mediterranean.

The Myrtle Tree

Myrtle is distinguished by its evergreen leaves that contain aromatic volatile oils. Many varieties of myrtle also produce flashy blossoms, as well as resins and gums. Black berries found on the myrtle tree are used with the leaves to make aromatherapy products.

Health Benefits

The application of myrtle can be traced back to the time of the ancient Greeks. It was said that athletes wore evergreen wreaths of myrtle leaves atop their heads during the Olympics. Believing that it was a symbol of immortality, they also used it in many love potions and treatments for various ailments.

During the time of the Roman Empire, myrtle was used to treat respiratory and urinary problems. The Egyptians used it to treat nervous afflictions. French women drank tea made from crushed myrtle leaves to preserve the youthfulness of their appearance and their overall vigor. And at one point, there were even some talks of the myrtle tree as a cure for cancer, but little evidence was found concerning this.

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.

There are other health benefits of myrtle. It is believed to be anti-infective, and can be used as a tonic to hasten the healing process. Healers in Middle Eastern countries have traditionally used myrtle as a treatment for diabetes.

In the 1980s, scientists studied myrtle closely, trying to identify the active ingredients that lends it its various medicinal properties. Results of one study indicated that myrtle herb extract can decrease the levels of blood sugar in mice. This may explain the association of myrtle and diabetes. There is, however, no concrete proof that the herb is safe to use and effective for people who suffer with the disease.

Directions for Use

Myrtle extract is created from plant's leaves and seeds. Most tests have shown positive results if the plant extract is taken orally and in liquid form. A standard dose is usually around one to two milliliters of the essential oil daily. Be sure that you ask your doctor first before taking it.

Topical formulations are also used although not common. Again, make sure to use this plant 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.

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.

Article Source: http://www.myaddirectory.com

Contributor Mabel Dugmore writes for numerous up and coming web sites, on health article and doula training issues.

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