Myrtle

The myrtle or myrtle (Myrtus communis) is an aromatic shrub, related to the eucalyptus, which grows on the edges of dry boulevards and gullies in areas generally close to the sea, throughout the Mediterranean basin.

Its medicinal attributes were already well known in classical Greece. Dioscórides recommended its leaves to heal different ailments, such as heartburn or difficulty urinating, and explained that a bitter wine was prepared with its boiled and squeezed berries that was used to combat drunkenness.

At that time it was also customary for brides to adorn their hair with myrtle leaves, because this bush was consecrated to Aphrodite, goddess of love.
The myrtle can be one to two meters tall. It is a highly branched shrub, with ovate-lanceolate, sharp, hard leaves, shiny on the upper side and very fragrant. It has white flowers, also very aromatic, and spherical blackish-blue berries.

These fruits are edible, although to have a better flavor it is convenient to remove the skin. Liqueurs and syrups are made with them, and they are also used as a cooking condiment.

In herbalists, the myrtle is found in the form of a dry leaf for infusion for internal and external use, in liquid extract, in tincture, the essential oil in drops or aerosols to inhale, in capsules and in suppositories.

Myrtle medicinal properties

The part that is used for medicinal purposes is the leaf, which contains a very active essential oil, rich in myrtol, eucalyptol and cineol, as well as abundant tannins. The leaves are an excellent antiseptic for the respiratory tract, with a balsamic and decongestant effect.

A good way to apply myrtle is in vaporization or vapors to improve respiratory tract conditions.

essential oil is highly valued in aromatherapy. It is considered an antiseptic, mild stimulant, revitalizing, and refreshing, and is used primarily to relieve lung congestion in severe colds, flu, bronchitis, and asthma. just enter 40 drops of essence in 100 ml of sweet almond oil and apply a little of this oil in massage on the congested chest.

to a lesser extentthe myrtle It is also indicated in urinary infections, as hemostatic and astringent to treat varicose veins and hemorrhoids, and as a digestive remedy in case of empacho or heartburn.

The leaves and the log of myrtle They are used in traditional cuisines such as Italian to flavor stews.

With the leaves are also made cologne waters and perfumes.

How to make vapors for rhinitis and bronchitis

Inhaling myrtle infusion combined with eucalyptus, lavender and perpetual helps to decongest the respiratory tract.

It is recommended in case of bronchitis, asthma, allergies with rhinitis and mucus, sinusitis and laryngitis.

How they are made

Combine the four plants in equal parts and add two tablespoons of the mixture per half a liter of water. Collect the steam by covering your head with a cloth or towel and breathe over the steaming infusion for 4-5 minutes, until it is gone. start to sweat

Precautions and contraindications

The essential oil should be avoided internally during pregnancy and lactation, and never be administered to children under 6 years of age or to patients with gastritis or gastroduodenal ulcer.

Jordi Cebrian. Advisor: J Mª Teixé, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”