Focus on Phytochemical Screening, Chemical Constituents, Pharmacological Effects and Medical Uses of Gummi myrrha

Abstract

Gummi myrrha is the air-dried gum resin taken from the branches and stems of Commiphora molmol Engler (Burseraceae). The other names include myrrh, myrrhe, myrrha. Commiphora species are shrubs with 3 m high. It has rounded tops, thick trunks, dark brown bark, and large, sharply pointed thorns on the stem. It has many asymmetrical stunted and spiny. The leaves are unequal and alternate. The flowers are small, yellow-red fascicled, and arranged in terminal panicles. Gummi myrrha contains resins (25-40%), essential oil (3-8%), and a water-soluble gum (30-60%). The Gummi myrrha contains 20% proteins and 65% carbohydrates (galactose, 4-O-methylglucuronic acid, and arabinose). The major constituents of the Gummi myrrha essential oil are furanosesquiterpenes, and the monoterpenes α-, β- and γ-bisabolene. Gummi myrrha is used for mild inflammations treatment. It is used to treat aphthous ulcers, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, common cold, and gingivitis. Gummi myrrha is used as an emmenagogue, expectorant, and antidote for toxins and to stop blood coagulation. It treats menopausal symptoms, arthritic pain, diarrhea, fatigue, headache, jaundice, and indigestion. The pharmacology activity of Gummi myrrha includes experimental pharmacology and clinical pharmacology. Experimental pharmacology includes cardio-protective, analgesic, antipyretic, anticoagulant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, cytoprotective, antimicrobial, and antileishmanial activities. Clinical pharmacology includes anti-obesity, antidiarrheal, and wound healing activities. The ointment of Gummi myrrha essential oil was non-irritating, non-sensitizing, and non-photo toxic to the human skin. The dose of myrrh tincture =1:5 g/ml, Gummi myrrha tincture applied to the affected area 2 or 3 times/ day; Gummi myrrha mouth solution= 5-10 drops of the tincture in a glass of water.