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Commiphora (Myrrha (Commiphora molmol))

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Authorisation details
Latin name of the genus: Commiphora
Latin name of herbal substance: Myrrha
Botanical name of plant: Commiphora molmol Engler
English common name of herbal substance: Myrrh
Status: P: Draft published
Date added to the inventory: 31/10/2007
Date added to priority list: 06/03/2008
Outcome of European Assessment: Community herbal monograph
Additional Information:



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    • Product Characteristics - Assessment Report
    Table of contents
    Assessment report on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resina
    EMA/HMPC/96910/2010
    Page 2/16
     
    1. Introduction
    1.1. Description of the herbal substance(s), herbal preparation(s) or
    combinations thereof
    Herbal substance(s)
    Gumresin, hardened in air, obtained by incision or produced by spontaneous exudation from the stem
    and branches of Commiphora molmol Engler and/or other species of Commiphora , complying with the
    monograph of the European Pharmacopoeia (01/2008:1349).
    Commiphora myrrha (Nees) Engler is a synonym of Commiphora molmol Engler. Other species which
    may be acceptable as sources of myrrh are Commiphora abyssinica (Berg) Engler and Commiphora
    schimperi (Berg) Engler (ESCOP 2003).
    Herbal preparation(s)
    Myrrh tincture (1:5; extraction solvent: ethanol 90% V/V), Ph. Eur. monograph (01/2008:1877).
    Combinations of herbal substance(s) and/or herbal preparation(s) including a description of
    vitamin(s) and/or mineral(s) as ingredients of traditional combination herbal medicinal products
    assessed, where applicable.
    1.2. Information about products on the market in the Member States
    According to the information provided by the National Competent Authorities:
    Austria: Myrrh is present in combination products (as ethanolic extracts) used as bitters for stomach
    problems. Myrrh tincture (apparently pharmacy made) is used in phytotherapy for inflammations of the
    gingiva.
    Czech Republic: No single active ingredient products available, but several combination products
    („Schwedenbitter”) containing myrrh, used as adjuvants in mild gastrointestinal complaints, are
    available.
    Denmark: Some MAs (from 1980) containing myrrh tincture, either alone or in combination products.
    Used as local astringent and anaesthetic in the mouth.
    Estonia: One combination product registered.
    Germany: Myrrh tincture (1:5; extraction solvent: ethanol 90% v/v), and a dry extract (4-6:1;
    extraction solvent ethanol 60% m/m) available in combination products. Myrrh tincture as single active
    ingredient is available as a product with a German standard marketing authorisation.
    Slovenia: No single active ingredient products available, but several combination products
    („Schwedenbitter”) containing myrrh, used as adjuvants in mild gastrointestinal complaints, are
    available.
    United Kingdom: Myrrh tincture (BPC) is available as a product first approved in 1972. The indications
    are: 1) Ulcers in the mouth and pharynx; 5 ml directly applied as required or diluted with water to 20
    ml and used as a gargle as required - 2) Flatulence; 2.5-5 ml 3 times daily as required. The product is
    not recommended for children under 12 years of age.
    Assessment report on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resina
    EMA/HMPC/96910/2010
    Page 3/16
     
     
     
    Regulatory status overview
    Member State Regulatory Status
    Comments (not
    mandatory field)
    Austria
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: Combination products
    Belgium
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: No products
    Bulgaria
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Cyprus
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Czech Republic
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: Combination products
    Denmark
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Estonia
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: Combination products
    Finland
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: No products
    France
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Germany
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Greece
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Hungary
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Iceland
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Ireland
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Italy
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: No products
    Latvia
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Liechtenstein
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Lithuania
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Luxemburg
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Malta
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    The Netherlands
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: No products
    Norway
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: No products
    Poland
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: No products
    Portugal
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Romania
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    Slovak Republic
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: No products
    Slovenia
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: Combination product
    Spain
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: No products
    Sweden
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify: No products
    United Kingdom
    MA
    TRAD
    Other TRAD
    Other Specify:
    MA: Marketing Authorisation
    TRAD: Traditional Use Registration
    Other TRAD: Other national Traditional systems of registration
    Other: If known, it should be specified or otherwise add ’Not Known’
    This regulatory overview is not legally binding and does not necessarily reflect the legal status of the
    products in the MSs concerned.
    Assessment report on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resina
    EMA/HMPC/96910/2010
    Page 4/16
    1.3. Search and assessment methodology
    PubMed was searched on 27 January 2010 using the terms [myrrh OR commiphora molmol OR
    commiphora mol mol OR commiphora myrrha]. 122 references were retrieved. The abstracts were
    screened manually and all articles deemed relevant were assessed and included in the list of
    references.
    2. Historical data on medicinal use
    Myrrh appears to be one of the oldest medicines. Its use was recorded in the recipes from ancient
    Rome and in the texts of Hippocrates. Myrrh is also mentioned in both the Bible and the Koran
    (Madaus 1938).
    2.1. Information on period of medicinal use in the Community
    Myrrh has been used within the European Union for more than 30 years (Braun 1968, Madaus 1938,
    Moritz 1967). The herbal preparation mainly used seems to be the tincture (Ph. Eur. 2008, ESCOP
    2003, Kommission E 1987, Bradley 1992, Todd 1967, Barnes 2007).
    2.2. Information on traditional/current indications and specified
    substances/preparations
    The current use of myrrh in the form of tincture (1:5, extraction solvent ethanol 90% V/V) for
    oromucosal treatment of minor ulcers and inflammation in the mouth (stomatitis and gingivitis) is well-
    documented in recent handbooks (e.g. ESCOP 2003, Bradley 1992, Blumenthal 2000, Barnes 2007).
    The use of undiluted myrrh tincture to paint the affected areas in the mouth is also well-documented
    (Blumenthal 2000, Hänsel 1992, Information from UK).
    Another current use of myrrh tincture is the topical application to minor wounds, abrasions, furuncles
    and skin inflammations (Barnes 2007, ESCOP 2003, Hänsel 1992, Bradley 1992).
    Historically, myrrh (tincture) has had a medicinal use to relieve various gastrointestinal disorders, such
    as indigestion and intestinal infections (Todd 1967, Hänsel 1992, Bradley 1992, Information from UK,
    Madaus 1938), but this use seems to have declined (Hänsel 1992, Bradley 1992, ESCOP 2003, Barnes
    2007). The oral use of myrrh tincture in combination products is still in practice within the Member
    States (Information from e.g. Austria, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Germany, Slovenia, UK).
    2.3. Specified strength/posology/route of administration/duration of use
    for relevant preparations and indications
    Recommended posology for oromucosal use of myrrh tincture (1 g = 65 drops; 0.8194 g/ml; 0.02
    ml/drop) as a gargle:
    30-60 drops (0.6-1.2 ml) of tincture in a glass of warm water (Blumenthal 2000).
    5 ml of tincture in a glass of water 3 times daily (Bradley 1992).
    5 ml of tincture in 15 ml of water (Information from UK).
    1-5 ml of tincture in a glass of water several times daily (ESCOP 2003).
    20-30 drops (0.4-0.6 ml) of tincture in a glass of water several times daily (Madaus 1938).
    2.5-5 ml in a glass of water several times daily (Barnes 2007).
    Assessment report on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resina
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    Based on this information, the following posology appears well founded in European tradition:
    0.5-5 ml of myrrh tincture in a glass of water 3 times daily.
    Recommended posology for direct oromucosal application of myrrh tincture:
    Apply the undiluted tincture to the affected areas on the gums or the mucous membranes of the
    mouth. Paint with a brush or swab, 2-3 times daily (Blumenthal 2000).
    Paint the affected areas 2-3 daily with undiluted tincture (Hänsel 1992).
    Apply undiluted tincture directly as required (information from UK).
    Recommended posology for topical use of myrrh tincture on the skin:
    Apply undiluted tincture (Bradley 1992).
    For use on skin, dab 2-3 times daily with diluted or undiluted tincture (ESCOP 2003).
    For skin, diluted or undiluted (Barnes 2007).
    3. Non-Clinical Data
    3.1. Overview of available pharmacological data regarding the herbal
    substance(s), herbal preparation(s) and relevant constituents thereof
    Constituents:
    Volatile oil, resin and gum. The main constituents of the volatile oil are furano-sesquiterpenes with
    furanodesma-1.3-diene as the main component (structure: see below). Important components of the
    resin are α-, β- and γ-commiphoric acids, α- and β-heerabomyrrhols, heeraboresene, commiferin,
    burseracin, various terpenes. Also present are the steroids campesterol, cholesterol and β-sitosterol
    (ESCOP 2003, Hagers Handbuch 1992, Wichtl 1989).
    O
    O
    O
    Furanodesma-1,3-diene
    Curzarene
    Furanodiene
    O
    O
    O
    O
    Furanodiene-6-one
    O
    Methoxyfuranoguaia-9-ene-8one
    Assessment report on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resina
    EMA/HMPC/96910/2010
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    Isolation of furano-sesquiterpenes not mentioned in the above cited handbooks is described by
    Maradufu (1982, 1988).
    A review of myrrh, including products from other Commiphora species than the ones accepted as
    sources of myrrh, is published by El Ashry (2003).
    The sesquiterpenes furanodesma-1.3-diene, curzarene, furanodiene, furanodiene-6-one and
    metyhoxyfuranoguaia-9-ene-8-one have been found to have antibacterial, antifungal, analgesic and
    local anaesthetic effects, see pharmacological effects below (Dolara 1996a, 1996b and 2000).
    Two new furano-sesquiterpenes were isolated from Commiphora myrrha Engl. (= C. molmol (Nees)
    Engl.) and their structures determined (Zhu 2001).
    Six aromatic sesquiterpenes were isolated from Commiphora myrrha Engl. One was a new furano-
    sesquiterpene and one was identified as a new natural aroma previously not found in the genus
    Commiphora . The others were isolated for the first time from Commiphora myrrha Engl. (Zhu 2003).
    The sesquiterpenes cadina-3-en-15-ol (myrracadinol A),7,8-seco-2,5-dihydroxy-12-acetoxycalam-8-
    ene (myrracalamene A), 7,8-seco-2,3,5-hydroxy-12-acetoxycalame-8-ene (myrracalamene B), 7,8-
    seco-cadin-3,8-dien-2β,12-diol (myrracadinol B), 7,8-seco-12-hydroxycalam-8-ene (myrracalamene
    C), 7, 8-seco-cadin-3,7(12)-dien-5α,10α-diol (myrracadinol C) along with a known compound triacont-
    1-ene were isolated from Commiphora myrrha (Nees) Engl. and their structures elucidated on the basis
    of spectral and chemical analyses (Ahmed 2006).
    The octanordammaranes mansumbinone and 3.4-seco-mansumbinoic acid as well as the
    sesquiterpenes β-elemene and T-cadinol were isolated from the oleo-resin of Commiphora molmol
    Engl. (Rahman 2008).
    A review of the constituents found in myrrh and frankincense has been published by Shen (2008).
    The watersoluble gum fraction of myrrh (40% w/w) has been found to comprise a mixture of
    proteoglycans with dominating amounts of uronic acid rich polymers (Wiendl 1995).
    Pharmacological effects relevant to traditional use:
    Antibacterial and antifungal effects
    A fraction from an n-hexane extract of myrrh containing a mixture of furanodiene-6-one and
    methoxyfuranoguaia-9-ene-8-one had antibacterial effect against Pseudomonas aeruginosa ,
    Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli as well as antifungal effect against Candida albicans with
    minimum inhibitory concentrations of 0.18 – 2.8 µg/ml (Dolara 2000).
    The crude chloroform extract of the oleo-resin of C. molmol displayed potentiation of ciprofloxacin and
    tetracycline against S. aureus , several Salmonella enterica strains and two K. pneumoniae strains. The
    antibacterial activity of the terpenes mansumbinone, 3.4-seco-mansumbinoic acid, β-elemene and T-
    cadinol was determined against a number of Staphylococcus aureus strains: SA1199B, ATCC25923,
    XU212, RN4220 and EMRSA15 and minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were found to be in
    the range of 4-256 µg/ml. The highest activity was observed by 3.4-seco-mansumbinoic acid with an
    MIC of 4 µg/ml against SA1199B, a multidrug-resistant strain which over-expresses the NorA efflux
    transporter, the major characterized antibiotic pump in this species. This activity compared favorably
    to the antibiotic norfloxacin with an MIC of 32 µg/ml. This compound also displayed weak potentiation
    of ciprofloxacin and tetracycline activity against strains of Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium
    SL1344 and L10 (Rahman 2008).
    Assessor’s comments: Myrrh contains terpenes with fairly potent antibacterial effect against several
    bacteria including the most common wound pathogen S. aureus. The antibacterial effect has been
    shown in vitro and the mechanism of action is not known.
    Local anaesthetic activity
    A fraction from myrrh containing a mixture of furanodiene-6-one and methoxyfuranoguaia-9-ene-8-
    one, in approximately equivalent amounts, had local anaesthetic activity (p<0.01) when administered
    Assessment report on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resina
    EMA/HMPC/96910/2010
    Page 7/16
    in eye drops (2% DMSO + phosphate buffer) at a concentration of 280 µg/ml in the conjunctival sac of
    male New Zealand albino rabbits. The vehicle was used as control. The effect was about half that of
    procain at 100 µg/ml. The local anaesthetic effect of the terpene mixture was shown to be due to
    inhibition of sodium inward currents in excitable mammalian membranes (Dolara 2000).
    Assessor’s comments: Myrrh contains terpenes exhibiting local anaesthetic activity in animal
    experiments.
    Anti-inflammatory effects
    An ethanol extract of the oleo-gum resin of Commiphora molmol in an i.p. dose of 400 mg/kg reduced
    the weight of xylene-induced ear oedema in mice with 50 – 53% (p<0.05). In rats, an oral dose of 400
    mg/kg significantly (p<0.05) reduced the weight of cotton pellet granuloma (Atta 1998).
    In rats, the petroleum ether extract of the oleo-gum resin of Commiphora molmol produced significant
    inhibition of carrageenan induced inflammation and cotton pellet granuloma in rats at an oral dose of
    500 mg/kg bw (Tariq 1985).
    Assessor’s comments: The oral doses required for anti-inflammatory activity are comparatively high.
    No information is available concerning possible anti-inflammatory effects following topical application.
    Analgesic effects
    In mice, a suspension of ground myrrh in saline at an oral dose of 1 g/kg significantly (p<0.01)
    increased the latency of pain reaction (paw licking) when placed on a 52°C metal plate. The
    sesquiterpenes furanoeudesma-1.3-diene and curzarene, isolated from myrrh, were found to be
    analgesic to mice in this test at an intracerebro-ventricular dose of 1.25 mg/kg, whereas a third
    sesquiterpene – furanodiene – was ineffective. Furanoeudesma-1.3-diene, at an oral dose of 50
    mg/kg, had the same effect. This oral dose also considerably reduced the number of writhes in mice
    after i.p. administration of 0.6% acetic acid. This effect was completely reversed by naloxone.
    Furanoeudesma-1.3-diene displaced concentration-dependently the specific binding of the opioid 3H-
    diprenorphine to brain membranes (Dolara 1996a, 1996b).
    Administered orally to mice, an ethanol extract of myrrh had a significant and dose-dependent
    analgesic effect in the acetic-acid writhing test at 200 mg/kg (p<0.05) and 400 mg/kg (p<0.01) (Atta
    1998).
    Assessor’s comments: In high doses, orally administered myrrh and isolated terpenes have an
    analgesic effect in animal experiments. The effect can be blocked with naloxone, which indicates an
    interaction with brain opioid mechanisms.
    Other reported pharmacological effects:
    Antipyretic effect
    After oral administration to hyperetic mice of either an ethanolic or a petroleum ether extract of myrrh
    (25:1) at a dose of 500 mg/kg body weight, a significant antipyretic effect (p<0.001) was
    demonstrated (Mohsin 1989, Tariq 1985).
    Stimulation of phagocytosis
    Mice inoculated with Escherichia coli were treated intraperitoneally with either a dried ethanolic extract
    or the unsaponifiable fraction of myrrh, as solutions in aqueous ethanol (10% V/V) at 50 mg/kg (1 mg
    per 20 g animal). Both treatments stimulated phagocytosis in over 80% of the mice compared to
    controls (Delaveau 1980).
    Cytoprotective effect
    Oral administration of myrrh to rats at 250, 500 and 1000 mg/kg body weight provided significant and
    dose-dependent protection to the gastric mucosa against the ulcerogenic effects of various necrotizing
    Assessment report on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resina
    EMA/HMPC/96910/2010
    Page 8/16
    agents: 80% ethanol, 25% sodium chloride, 0.2 M sodium hydroxide, indometacin 30 mg/kg and
    combined ethanol 80%-indometacin 2.5 mg/kg (p<0.05 to p<0.001, depending on the dose). The
    same suspension significantly and dose-dependently protected against ethanol-induced depletion of
    gastric wall mucus (p<0.05 at 500 mg/kg; p<0.001 at 1000 mg/kg) (Al-Harbi 1997).
    Protective effect against liver oxidative damage and genotoxicity
    The effect of lead acetate in the diet (0.5% w/w) on reduced GSH, activity on phase II metabolizing
    enzyme glutathione S-transferase (GST), lipid peroxidation in liver homogenate and bone marrow
    chromosomes of mice, simultaneously supplemented with 1% myrrh powder for 8 weeks was
    investigated. Compared with negative control (only diet), GSH decreased in both positive control (diet
    + lead acetate) and treated group (diet + lead acetate + myrrh). GST decreased in positive control but
    increased in the treated group compared to both negative and positive control. Lipid peroxidation was
    reduced by 45% in the treated group compared to both positive and negative control. Lead
    genotoxicity was confirmed through significant reduction in the number of dividing cells, increased total
    number of aberrant cells and increased frequency of chromosomal aberrations. The genotoxicity was
    significantly reduced by treatment with myrrh (El-Ashmawy 2006).
    Antitumour and cytotoxic effects
    The anticarcinogenic potential of Commiphora molmol (oleoresin) was studied in Ehrlich-solid-tumor-
    bearing mice. Treatment with C. molmol (250 and 500 mg/kg/day) was found to be cytotoxic in Ehrlich
    solid tumors cells. The antitumor potential of C. molmol was comparable to the standard cytotoxic drug
    cyclophosphamide. This effect of C. molmol was less pronounced after 50 days of treatment (Al-Harbi
    1994).
    Oral doses of 125, 250 and 500 mg of an aqueous suspension of myrrh given to mice for 7 days had
    no effect on the incidence of micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (PCE) in the bone marrow but
    in comparison to the control groups there was a statistically significant decrease in the PCE/NCE ratio
    (NCE = normochromatic erythrocytes), indicating the cytotoxic potential of myrrh, which was found to
    be comparable to that of cyclophosphamide. The levels of DNA and protein in hepatic cells were not
    affected by treatment with myrrh but there was a significant decrease in their RNA content,
    comparable to that caused by cyclophosphamide. In Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC) cell-bearing mice
    oral doses of 500 mg/kg of the myrrh suspension caused significant reductions in the DNA (p<0.05),
    RNA (p<0.01) and protein (p<0.01) contents of the EAC cells and in their viability (p<0.05). An
    increased survival rate of the animals was also observed (Qureshi 1993).
    The furano-sesquiterpenoid rel-1S,2S-epoxy-4R-furanogermacr-10(15)-en-6-one exhibited weak
    cytotoxic activity against a MCF-7- breast tumor cell line in a clonogenic assay (Zhu 2001).
    Effects in gingival cells
    Through their production of cytokines such as IL-6 and IL-8, human gingival fibroblasts and epithelial
    cells act as accessory immune cells, thereby contributing to peridontal destruction. The cytotoxicity of
    the essential oil from myrrh ( Commiphora molmol ) (MO) to human gingival fibroblasts and epithelial
    cells and the effect on interleukin (IL)-1β-stimulated production of IL-6 and IL-8 has been determined.
    Cell viability and cytotoxicity were determined by metabolic reduction of a tetrazolium salt to a
    formazan dye (MTT assay) and by release of lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) from membrane damaged
    (LDH release assay) cells, respectively. Based on the MTT assay, 24- and 48-h exposures to ≤0.001%
    MO had little effect on fibroblast and epithelial cell (24-h only) viability. At 48 h, 0.0005-0.001% MO
    decreased epithelial cell viability 30-50%. After 24 and 48 h, MO, at ≥0.005%, maximally decreased
    viability of all cell lines. In the LDH release assay, exposure to ≤ 0.0001% MO caused <10%
    cytotoxicity to all cells. At 24 h, ≥0.0025 %MO caused maximal cytotoxicity; ≤0.001% MO caused 10-
    70% cytotoxicity. At longer exposure times, epithelial cells were more susceptible to cytotoxic effects
    of MO. There was little or no detectable IL-1β-stimulated production of IL-6 or IL-8 by cells exposed to
    Assessment report on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resina
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    Page 9/16
    ≥0.0025% MO, probably reflective of loss of viability. At subtoxic MO levels (0.00001-0.001%), there
    was a significant reduction of IL-1β-stimulated IL-6 and IL-8 production by fibroblasts, but not by
    epithelial cells (Tipton 2003).
    The effect of MO on IL-lβ-stimulated PGE(2) production and NF-κB activation in gingival fibroblasts and
    epithelial cells was determined. Cells were preincubated with MO, exposed to IL-lβ, cytoplasmic and
    nuclear fractions were isolated, and activated NF-κB was measured using an ELISA-based assay. IL-lβ
    increased nuclear activated NF-κB levels in fibroblasts and epithelial cells [10-and 2.5-fold over
    controls, respectively (p=0.0001)], and these increases were not significantly affected by MO. PGE(2)
    was measured in cell supernatants by ELISA, after preincubation with MO and exposure to IL-1β. MO
    inhibited IL-lβ-stimulated PGE(2) production by fibroblasts (p=0.001), but not epithelial cells. The data
    suggest that gingival epithelial cells and fibroblasts may differ in the magnitude of NF-κB activation
    after IL-lβ stimulation, and that MO inhibition of IL-lβ-stimulated IL-6 production in fibroblasts is due in
    part to inhibition of PGE(2), but not NF-κB activation (Tipton 2006).
    Hypoglycaemic effects
    Intragastric treatment of normal and diabetic rats with a 5% w/v aqueous extract of myrrh (extracted
    with boiling water then filtered) daily for one week at 10 ml/kg body weight lowered fasting blood
    glucose levels in both groups and, in the oral glucose tolerance test, significantly increased glucose
    tolerance in both normal (p<0.02) and diabetic animals (p<0.05) (Al-Awadi 1987).
    Oral administration of two fractions (200-250 mg/kg body weight) and two pure furanosesquiterpenes
    (150-175 mg/kg) from myrrh ( C. myrrha ) to obese diabetic mice produced significant reductions in
    blood glucose at 27 hours post-dose (p<0.005 in all cases). One active fraction at 200 mg/kg reduced
    blood glucose by 50% (p<0.0001), compared to a 41% reduction with the oral antidiabetic metformin
    at 250 mg/kg (Ubillas 1999).
    Antithrombotic activity
    Powdered myrrh ( C. molmol ), administered orally at 100 mg/kg body weight, provided 86% (p<0.05)
    protection against ADP/adrelanine-induced thrombosis in mice, comparable to the 94 % (p<0.05) by
    acetylsalicylic acid at 20 mg/kg (Olajide 1999).
    Antischistosomal activity
    In several experimental studies in mice, the antischistosomal activity of a purified extract of myrrh
    (Mirazid) has been investigated. Some studies have concluded that the efficacy is promising, whereas
    others have been unable to confirm this result (Hassan 2003, Massoud 2004a, Massoud 2004b,
    Massoud 2005, Hamed 2005, Botros 2004).
    Assessor’s overall conclusions on pharmacology
    Myrrh is a gum-resin with complicated chemistry. Best investigated are the components of the volatile
    oil, which are dominated by furano-sesquiterpenes, some of which have pharmacological activity. A
    number of pharmacodynamic effects in animal experiments have been described for the resin as well
    as for isolated terpenes. Of relevance for the traditional indications gingivitis, stomatitis, wounds and
    furuncles are the reported antibacterial, local anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory effects, and possibly,
    the antifungal and the analgesic effect. The traditional use involves a direct application of the tincture
    to the affected areas in the mouth or on the skin, so there is a reasonable plausibility that the
    experimentally observed effects may be clinically relevant.
    In Egypt, myrrh is used for treatment of bilharzia and several Egyptian investigations have
    demonstrated antischistosomal activity of oral preparations of the herbal substance. This activity could,
    however, not be confirmed by other investigators. The potential antischistosomal activity of myrrh
    remains controversial.
    Assessment report on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resina
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    3.2. Overview of available pharmacokinetic data regarding the herbal
    substance(s), herbal preparation(s) and relevant constituents thereof
    No information.
    3.3. Overview of available toxicological data regarding the herbal
    substance(s)/herbal preparation(s) and constituents thereof
    Single dose toxicity
    In mice, no visible signs of toxicity and no mortality were observed at oral doses of resin ≤ 3 g/kg bw
    (Rao 2001).
    In rats, the acute oral LD50 value of myrrh oil is reported as 1.65 g/kg bw (1.40 – 1.90 g/kg) (Opdyke
    1976).
    Repeat dose toxicity
    Myrrh resin was administered to mice via the drinking water at a dose of 100 mg/kg/day during 3
    months. No toxic symptoms were observed. The weight gain in the myrrh group was significantly
    (p<0.05) higher than in the control group. After treatment the average weight of the vital organs and
    conditions of the viscera were normal and comparable to that of the control animals. The weight of
    testes, caudae epididymides and seminal vesicles was significantly (p<0.05) higher in the myrrh group
    as compared to the control. Biochemical studies showed no significant differences as compared to the
    control. Haematological studies revealed a significant (p<0.05) rise of RBC and haemoglobin levels in
    the myrrh group as compared to the control (Rao 2001).
    Myrrh resin given daily to 6 months-old goat kids (0.25, 1 and 5 g of resin/kg/day) resulted in death
    between day 5 and 16 in the doses 1 and 5 g/kg/day. The lowest dose (0.25 g/kg/day) was apparently
    not toxic (Omer 1999).
    Genotoxicity
    Oral administration of a fresh aqueous suspension of myrrh to mice for 7 days at 125 – 500 mg/kg
    bw/day showed no mutagenicity in the micronucleus test. The levels of DNA and protein in hepatic
    cells were not affected but there was a significant decrease in their RNA content, comparable to that of
    cyclophosphamide (Qureshi 1993).
    Myrrh reduced the genotoxicity produced by lead acetate in mice (El-Ashmawy 2006).
    In rats, a preparation of myrrh (Mirazid) caused a non-significant increase in the incidence of
    chromosomal aberrations at an oral dose of 500 mg/kg bw/day for 6 weeks. This dose had no
    hepatotoxic effect (Omar 2005).
    Carcinogenicity
    No information.
    Reproductive and developmental toxicity
    No information.
    Local tolerance
    No irritation, sensitization (in 21 volunteers) or phototoxicity was found for myrrh oil (Opdyke 1976).
    In tests of myrrh in the local lymph node assay (LLNA) in mice, a dose-dependent cell proliferation was
    observed. The stimulation index (SI) in the radioactive LLNA was more than 3, indicating that myrrh
    has a dermal sensitizing potential. Flow cytometric analysis of the B- and T-cell populations in the local
    lymph nodes indicated that myrrh is a weak sensitizer (Lv 2009).
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    Assessor’s overall conclusions on toxicology
    Preclinical data on the toxicity of Commiphora molmol Engler, gum-resin is incomplete.
    Limited genotoxicity tests (micronucleus test in mice) have been performed, which indicated no
    genotoxic potential. Due to the antibacterial effect of myrrh, no results from Ames’ test are to be
    expected.
    There are no reports on reproductive and developmental toxicity.
    There are some reports in the literature about tests of the local tolerance of myrrh. An old report from
    1976 in human volunteers indicated no irritating or sensitising effects, whereas a very recent study in
    the LLNA indicated a weak sensitising potential. The LLNA is a validated OECD test, and attention
    should be given to the sensitizing potential of myrrh.
    The analgesic effect following high doses of myrrh and the isolated terpenes furanodesma-1.3-diene
    and curzarene on oral administration is noteworthy as it seems to involve an opioid effect. No signals
    of abuse of myrrh have, however, been retrieved from the scientific literature.
    3.4. Overall conclusions on non-clinical data
    Antibacterial, local anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory effects of myrrh extracts and isolated terpenes
    have been shown in experimental models. These pharmacological effects make the traditional
    medicinal uses of myrrh and myrrh tincture plausible in the indications a) minor ulcers and
    inflammation in the mouth (stomatitis and gingivitis) and b) minor wounds and furuncles.
    There is also a historical medicinal use of myrrh and myrrh tincture for gastrointestinal disorders. This
    use possibly has some support by the experimental data on opioid and cytoprotective effects of myrrh.
    The oral use of myrrh (tincture) as single active ingredient seems to have declined during the last
    decades (Barnes 2007), and is not included in recent handbooks like Kommission E (Blumenthal, 2000)
    and ESCOP (2003).
    4. Clinical Data
    For all studies cited, it should be stated by means of a detailed description which herbal
    substance(s)/herbal preparation(s) have been used and information should be provided for each
    preparation separately.
    4.1. Clinical Pharmacology
    No information available.
    4.1.1. Overview of pharmacodynamic data regarding the herbal
    substance(s)/preparation(s) including data on relevant constituents
    See above section 3.
    4.1.2. Overview of pharmacokinetic data regarding the herbal
    substance(s)/preparation(s) including data on relevant constituents
    No information available.
    Assessor’s overall conclusions on clinical pharmacodynamics: No information on clinical
    pharmacodynamics is available.
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    4.2. Clinical Efficacy
    4.2.1. Dose response studies
    No information available.
    4.2.2. Clinical studies (case studies and clinical trials)
    No clinical studies on the efficacy related to the traditional indications are available.
    A commercial extract of myrrh – Mirazid, marketed for treatment of schistosomiasis, has been subject
    to several clinical studies in Egypt but – in analogy with the pharmacodynamic studies of this
    preparation (see above) – the results are controversial. Two open studies, comprising a total of 212
    patients, reported an excellent cure rate (92%) of an oral dose of 10 mg/kg/day for 3 days (Sheir
    2001, Soliman 2004).
    This result could not be confirmed in two other open studies. In one of these (Barakat 2005) Mirazid
    was given to 45 patients in a dose of 2 capsules/day for 3 days and the effect compared to a dose of
    40 mg/kg of praziquantel given to 38 other patients. The cure rate obtained with Mirazid was 15.6%,
    compared to praziquantel (73.7%). Also a second treatment with Mirazid gave a very low cure rate.
    In the second study (Botros 2005) a total of 1131 patients (459 school children and 672 household
    members) were randomly assigned to two groups. One group was given 300 mg/day of Mirazid for 3
    consecutive days and the second received praziquantel at a single dose of 40 mg/kg. Mirazid showed
    cure rates of 9.1% and 8.9% in S. mansoni-infected school children and household members,
    respectively, compared with cure rates of 62.5% and 79.7% respectively, in those treated with
    praziquantel.
    Good cure rates were reported in an open study on treatment of human fascioliasis (liver fluke) with
    Mirazid (Abo-Madyan 2004).
    The effect of myrrh for treatment of the zoonotic disease fascioliasis, caused by Fasciola , a liver fluke
    that infects sheep, goats and cattle for which humans act as an accidental host, has been investigated.
    7 patients who were passing Fasciola eggs in their stools were treated with a formulation consisting of
    8 parts of resin and 3.5 parts of volatile oils, all extracted from myrrh. The dose was 12 mg/kg/day for
    6 consecutive days in the morning on an empty stomach. Patients were followed for 3 months. The
    therapy proved to be effective, with pronounced improvement of general condition and amelioration of
    all symptoms and signs. A dramatic drop in the egg count was detected at the end of treatment. Eggs
    were no longer detectable in the faeces 3 weeks after treatment and after a follow-up period of 3
    months. High eosinophilic counts, elevated liver enzymes and Fasciola antibody titers returned to
    nearly normal. No signs of toxicity or adverse effects were observed (Massoud 2001).
    4.2.3. Clinical studies in special populations (e.g. elderly and children)
    No information.
    4.3. Overall conclusions on clinical pharmacology and efficacy
    No studies of clinical efficacy related to the traditional indications are available.
    There is no doubt that myrrh has a long-standing use. As mentioned in the introduction, myrrh was
    used as a medicine as far back as the ancient Greeks and Romans. Particularly the use in treatment of
    wounds and mouth infections is documented in the classical times. Myrrh and myrrh tincture have then
    been included and remained in many pharmacopoeias over the centuries and is still included in the
    most recent edition of Ph. Eur. On the basis of long-standing use and experience, the efficacy of myrrh
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    must be seen as plausible in the traditional indications a) minor ulcers and inflammation in the mouth
    (stomatitis and gingivitis) and b) minor wounds and furuncles.
    The results on antischistosomal effect and effect on liver fluke infection are controversial and require
    further studies before any firm conclusions can be made. There are no signals that myrrh has had a
    systematic use in these indications within the European Union.
    5. Clinical Safety/Pharmacovigilance
    Myrrh is listed by the Council of Europe as a natural source of favouring and may be added to
    foodstuffs in small quantities (Barnes 2007).
    Myrrh and the essential oil have been evaluated by the Committee of Experts on Cosmetic Products of
    the Council of Europe and have been classified into Category A “Plants and plant preparations that can
    be used in cosmetic products”. Myrrh and the essential oil have cosmetic uses in e.g. toothpastes,
    mouthwashes and in fragrances (Council of Europe 2001).
    5.1. Overview of toxicological/safety data from clinical trials in humans
    No information available.
    5.2. Patient exposure
    No information available.
    5.3. Adverse events and serious adverse events and deaths
    Allergic contact dermatitis caused by the Chinese orthopaedic solution tieh ta yao gin was
    demonstrated to be due to the content of myrrh and mastic (Lee 1993a, 1993b).
    Two cases of contact dermatitis due to plasters containing myrrh for treatment of wrist tendonitis have
    been reported (Gallo 1999).
    Strong allergy to myrrh solution and myrrh powder, resulting from application of the products for
    wound healing, is reported (Al-Suwaidan 1998).
    5.4. Laboratory findings
    No information available.
    5.5. Safety in special populations and situations
    Drug interactions: A case of interaction with warfarin has been reported. The anticoagulant effect of
    warfarin was reduced after the patient had taken an aqueous extract of boiled roots of Commiphora
    molmol as a treatment for bronchitis (Al Faraj 2005).
    Assessor’s comment: This report on boiled aqueous root extract of C. molmol is of limited relevance for
    the use of myrrh resin (tincture).
    5.6. Overall conclusions on clinical safety
    Very little clinical safety information is available. Apparently, there is a widespread cosmetic use of
    myrr and the essential oil, and the Council of Europe has approved this use. Nevertheless, there are a
    few reports on allergic skin reactions in the literature, and this is mentioned in the monograph.
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    6. Overall conclusions
    Sufficient data have not been retrieved from the literature to support any “well-established medicinal
    use”.
    Myrrh and its tincture have a very long history and tradition of medicinal use. The required 30 years of
    medicinal use (including 15 years within the European Union) must be considered fulfilled.
    The main areas of traditional medicinal use of myrrh and myrrh tincture have been treatment of
    infections/inflammation and pain in the mouth, infected wounds and other skin infections, and as a
    remedy for various gastrointestinal disorders.
    The oral use for gastrointestinal disorders appears to have declined very much in the last 30 years and
    does not seem to be common practice today according to several authoritative handbooks of recent
    dates. The uses that still exist today appear to be limited to myrrh tincture as an ingredient in multi-
    component recipes. It is not recommended to include myrrh tincture for oral use in the Community
    herbal monograph.
    The oromucosal use of myrrh tincture for oral infections/inflammations is currently in practice. For
    safety reasons it appears reasonable to limit the use in self medication to the indications minor ulcers
    and inflammation in the mouth, such as stomatitis and gingivitis. These conditions are normally
    expected to benefit from an improved oral hygiene and the experimentally shown antibacterial, local
    anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory activity of myrrh tincture may contribute to that. The posology
    recommended in different handbooks are overall in agreement. It should be noted in the product
    information that the use of myrrh tincture as a gargle in gingivitis cannot be used as a substitute for
    careful teeth-brushing.
    The cutaneous use of myrrh tincture for treatment of infected wounds and skin inflammations has a
    long tradition. Again, the experimentally shown antibacterial, local anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory
    activity of myrrh tincture makes this use sensible. The content of 90% ethanol in the tincture will most
    certainly also contribute to an antimicrobial effect. The alcohol may, however, also cause a
    considerable pain when applied to a large wound. This is perhaps also part of the traditional use. For
    reasons of safe self medication it appears reasonable to limit the use to minor wounds and small boils
    (furuncles). These conditions are normally self limiting in character and normally do not require a
    consultation of a physician.
    The risks involved in oromucosal and cutaneous use of myrrh tincture are generally estimated to be
    low. A few clinical case reports in the literature and results from tests in mice point to a possibility of
    allergic skin reactions. Myrrh is, however, acceptable for use in both food and cosmetic products
    according to evaluations made by the Council of Europe.
    Overall, a monograph on myrrh (tincture) is recommended with the following therapeutic indications:
    a) Traditional herbal medicinal product for treatment of minor ulcers and inflammation in the mouth
    (stomatitis and gingivitis).
    b) Traditional herbal medicinal product for treatment of minor wounds and small boils (furuncles).
    with the statement that ‘The product is a traditional herbal medicinal product for use in specified
    indications exclusively based upon long-standing use’.
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    Annex
    List of references
    Assessment report on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resina
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    Source: European Medicines Agency


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