The Miracle of Myrtle

Myrtle is a wonder herb derived from a family ofIn addition to healing wounds, myrtle is said to be
shrubs and trees collectively known as Myrtaceae.anti-infective and is a good tonic for speeding up the
These plants are almost entirely located in tropicalhealing process. In the Middle East, it has long been
regions including Australia and America. Myrtle can alsoperceived by traditional healers as a useful herb for
be found growing in North Africa, Iran and in thediabetes.
Mediterranean.Scientists in the 1980s put myrtle under the
Myrtle Treesmicroscope in an attempt to identify the active
Myrtle trees are distinguished by the evergreeningredients that give the plant so many medicinal
leaves that contain those valuable and aromaticproperties. There were indications from one study
volatile oils. Many varieties of myrtle produce gums,that herbal extracts of myrtle can decrease the
resins and flashy blossoms. The myrtle tree alsoblood sugar found in mice. This offers an explanation
produces black berries which, along with the leaves,as to the association associating of myrtle with
are used in aromatherapy applications.diabetes. It's important to note, however, that there
Health Advantages of Myrtleis still no concrete proof that myrtle is safe to use
In as far back as ancient Greece, people cherishedand effective for people who have the disease.
the application of myrtle. Greek athletes were said toDirections for Use
have worn wreaths of evergreen myrtle leavesMyrtle extract is taken from the plant's leaves and
during the Olympics. Ancient civilizations believed thatseeds. Studies have shown positive results when the
myrtle was a symbol of immortality, and they used itplant extract is taken orally and in liquid form. The
in love potions and as treatment for various ailments.standard dose of liquid myrtle extra is one to two
In the era of the Roman Empire, myrtle was used tomilliliters taken daily. Always ask your doctor before
treat urinary and respiratory ailments. Egyptians usedtaking myrtle.
the plant to treat nervous afflictions. French womenAlthough uncommon, topical myrtle extract
drank tea made from crushed myrtle leaves, believingformulations can also be used. Again, be sure to use
that it would help to preserve their youthfulthis herbal treatment only under your doctor's
appearance and overall vigor. Some actually believedsupervision.
myrtle to hold a cure for cancer, but little evidenceThere are two types of myrtle, and it's important
was found to prove the theory.that you do not confuse the two. Myrtus communis
Myrtle has been conventionally used to treat coughs,is known as "true" myrtle, and is the plant described
bronchitis and other respiratory infections. Thehere. The other variety, called "Madagascar Myrtle"
astringent properties of myrtle have also earned the(Eugenia jambolana), is a completely different plant
reputation for promoting good digestion, treatingand has entirely different effects on the body.
urinary tract disorders, and preventing woundMyrtle is believed to work well with other herbs and
infections. Recent laboratory studies suggest that thenutritional supplements. However, it should not be
herb contains anti-inflammatory substances, making itused if you are taking insulin or oral sulfonylureas. The
a viable astringent compound. This finding accountsherb may increase the levels of blood glucose, and
for the plant's enduring popularity as a wound andreduce the effects of your medications.
cough treatment.