Myrtle
essential oil is extracted from the myrtle plant's flowers, leaves and stem through the process of steam distillation. The myrtle plant played a role in ancient Greek history as being associated with Aphrodite, the goddess of love and beauty. Myrtle oil contains many healing compounds. The medicinal uses and health benefits of myrtle oil stem from its natural antiseptic, astringent, deodorant, expectorant and sedative properties. (
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Myrtle Essential Oil Uses and Benefits
1. Works as a Natural Astringent
Myrtle essential oil causes the gums to contract, which strengthens their hold on the teeth and
reduces receding gums. It also has the ability to contract and tighten the skin to help reduce wrinkles for more youthful looking skin. (
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2. Eliminates Bad Odor
Myrtle essential oil is often used in incense sticks and burners, vaporizers and fumigants due to its natural deodorizing properties. It can be used as a natural deodorant without itching or burning side effects.
3. Prevents Infections
The
natural antibiotic properties of myrtle oil can help prevent infections from forming in cuts, scrapes and other wounds. Applying it topically can help protect wounds from sepsis, tetanus and other infections.
4. Provides Relief from Colds
The natural expectorant properties of myrtle essential oil can help
clear congestion. The oil works to clear phlegm out of the nasal tracts, bronchi and lungs caused by colds and other respiratory infections. (
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5. Maintains Healthy Nerves
Myrtle essential oil naturally maintains healthy nerves. The oil maintains the stability of the nerves to help reduce feelings of stress, anxiousness and anxiety. It may be especially helpful against disorder such as
Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, anxiety and
vertigo.
6. Relaxes the Body
The sedative properties of myrtle essential oil work to relax the body. The oil can help provide natural relief from tension, stress, anger and
depression, as well as inflammation, irritation and allergies. (
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7. Works as an Aphrodisiac
Myrtle essential oil is historically associated with Aphrodite, possibly because of its natural aphrodisiac properties. The oil also works to help alleviate problems such as impotency and loss of libido.
8. Eases Breathing
Myrtle essential oil helps to ease breathing by reducing the accumulation of phlegm in the respiratory tract. The oil also helps prevent mucus from forming in the first place to help provide relief from coughs and labored breathing. (
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9. Cures Infection
The bactericidal, germicidal, fungicidal and antiviral properties of myrtle essential oil work to help prevent and cure infections, including internal infections. The oil can help cure digestive problems, including diarrhea.
Caution: There are no known adverse side effects of using myrtle oil. However, it is always important to pay attention to your body when using a new substance, including essential oils and supplements. If you are taking any medications, consider talking to your doctor before using myrtle oil.