We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Gardening

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What is Commiphora?

Alex Tree
By
Updated: May 16, 2024
Views: 12,251
Share

Commiphora is a genus of flowering plants under the Burseraceae, or torchwood, family. Its species are made up of trees and shrubs that can be seen growing in regions of east India, Arabia, and Africa. There are more than 180 known species of Commiphora recorded. The species in this genus have numerous uses, including medicinal purposes and in perfume manufacturing.

Common characteristics of these trees and shrubs are thorny branches and small trifoliate leaves. Variations of small to medium red, pink, and white flowers sprout along rough, woody stems. These perennials grow to heights of 13 feet (14 m) when fully mature. An aromatic smell is emitted whenever parts of these plants’ leaves and branches are bruised or cut off.

Commiphora wightii, or the Mukul myrrh tree, is one of the genus’ most frequently grown species. These trees are mostly cultivated for their sap, which is used as an ingredient for incense and herbal remedies for treating high cholesterol, liver problems, and excessive bleeding. Indian and Arab countries are the biggest commercial consumers of wightii. Like most of the species, Mukul myrrh trees also have protective thorns on their trunk and branches, and they grow small, off-white colored blooms during the summer.

Another popular variety of Commiphora that grows in some regions of Asia and Africa is meccanensis, commonly named balm of Gilead. The Bible mentions the plant as a source of herbal remedies for ailments such as fever and stomach aches. Its leaves secrete a fragrant smell. Products such as herbal balms for headaches and scented oils for places of worship are obtained from this medicinal plant.

These types of trees and shrubs can also be grown in gardens. Commiphora myrrha, or gum myrrh trees that have fragrant oval-shaped leaves and small white blossoms, are often used as accent or foundation plants for home gardens. Myrrha can also function as a natural insect repellent for outdoor living areas like pool decks and patios, because mosquitoes and flies tend to steer clear from this tree. The maximum height for gum myrrh trees is around 10 to 15 feet (3 to 4.5 m).

The majority of the species in this genus are grown mostly for their commercial value and medicinal functions rather than for ornamental reasons. Historical accounts of their many uses can be traced back to 2000 B.C. Egyptians used gum myrrh tree sap for embalming, and the Chinese boiled the leaves of Mukul myrrh trees to produce fragrant aromas during purification rituals. Modern day manufacturers of Commiphora products have started infusing these plants’ extracts with products such as mouthwash and acne creams.

Share
HomeQuestionsAnswered is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.
Alex Tree
By Alex Tree
Andrew McDowell is a talented writer and HomeQuestionsAnswered contributor. His unique perspective and ability to communicate complex ideas in an accessible manner make him a valuable asset to the team, as he crafts content that both informs and engages readers.
Discussion Comments
Alex Tree
Alex Tree
Andrew McDowell is a talented writer and HomeQuestionsAnswered contributor. His unique perspective and ability to communicate complex ideas in an accessible manner make him a valuable asset to the team, as he crafts content that both informs and engages readers.
Share
https://www.homequestionsanswered.com/what-is-commiphora.htm
Copy this link
HomeQuestionsAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

HomeQuestionsAnswered, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.