Myrrh & Opoponax – The Sacred Resins
Myrrh and Opoponax are aromatic resins derived from trees in the Commiphora genus, mainly Commiphora myrrha (Myrrh) and Commiphora guidotti (Opoponax). These resins have been treasured for centuries for their medicinal, spiritual, and perfumery applications.
Botanical Source & Extraction
- Plant Source:
- Myrrh: Commiphora myrrha (East Africa, Arabian Peninsula, India)
- Opoponax: Commiphora guidotti (Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya)
- Geographical Origin: Somalia, Ethiopia, Oman, Yemen, India
- Tree tapping: The bark is cut, releasing a golden-brown resin.
- Resin hardens into lumps and is later collected for use in raw form or for distillation.
Chemical Composition
- Furanoeudesma-1,3-diene – Anti-inflammatory & analgesic
- Curzerene – Antioxidant & antimicrobial properties
- Lindestrene – Relaxing & sedative effects
- α-Pinene & Limonene – Contribute to the warm, balsamic aroma
Myrrh & Opoponax Essential Oil & Extraction
- Extraction Method: Steam distillation of the resin
- Aroma Profile: Warm, balsamic, smoky, slightly spicy
Looking for details on Myrrh or Opoponax extraction, processing, or applications? Let’s connect!
