Integrating complementary and alternative medicine: Use of myrrh in wound management

Abstract

More than 38% of adult Americans use some form of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM). Many nurses and other healthcare providers have integrated CAM into their practice. Aromatherapy, a type of CAM, uses essential plant oils that emit strong, pleasant aromas to promote relaxation, healing and an overall sense of well-being. Aromatherapy has been used for centuries in cosmetics, fragrances, embalming, mummification, spiritual relaxation and healing. Several different techniques for the application of essential oils in aromatherapy include inhalation, vaporization, massage, bathing and compresses. Myrrh (Commiphoramyrrha) is an essential oil with a rich history. For instance, myrrh was one of three gifts given to the Christ child in the Bible story of the nativity, and it was also found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun. Amember of the Burseraceae botanical family, myrrh is a native tree or shrub found in tropical climates of Somalia and Ethiopia. When the bark cracks or is cut, a yellowish oleoresin forms. Once dried, it is reddish brown and can undergo steam distillation to produce the essential oil. The use of myrrh for therapeutic purposes is an ancient practice. The 1500 BC Ebers Papyrus identified more than 800 herbal prescriptions; many of thesemixtures containedmyrrh and honey. During biblical times, midwives applied myrrh to the perineum during labor to stretch the uterine wall and protect against infection. Myrrh was used to protect against dry cracked skin in the arid climates and theChinese usedmyrrh forwoundhealingbefore theTangDynasty. Although from limited clinical trials, preliminary evidence suggests that essential oils, such as myrrh, are beneficial in woundmanagement. High levels of sesquiterpenes found in myrrh make it an ideal essential oil for wound healing. Sesquiterpenes, a fundamental class of plant compounds, are found in most essential oils and have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, anti-allergen and antispasmodic properties. Myrrh has been used successfully to treat wounds and ulcers, largely due to its anti-inflammatory