Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) is a resinous essential oil with a deep, resinous aroma and a base note. Steam distillation from resin, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Frankincense (Carterii), Lavender, Sandalwood (Australian). For topical use, keep dilution at or below 5%.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Traditional aromatherapy associations
Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.
Properties
| Perfumery note | Base |
| Aroma family | Resinous |
| Chemical family | Sesquiterpene |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | resin |
| Origin | Somalia, Ethiopia, Kenya |
| Blending factor | 4 |
| Volatility index | 4 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 15.0 |
| CAS number | 8016-37-3 |
Safety & dilution
| Max topical dilution | 5% |
| Max facial dilution | 2.5% |
| Pregnancy | Not recommended |
| Nursing | Not recommended |
| Children | Generally suitable, well diluted (from ~6 months) |
| Cats | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Dogs | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
Not sure how much to use? Try the free dilution calculator.
Blends well with
Used in these blends
- Cuticle Healer →
- Just Breathe →
- Exhale Lullaby →
- Butter Lullaby →
- Nourish Garden →
- Shine Breeze →
- Gentle Study Compass →
- Tummy Compass →
- Tummy Anchor →
- Comfort Trail →
- Halo Wave →
- Follicle Glow →
- Loosen Reset →
- Clear Sanctuary →
- Bloom Trail →
- Midnight Calm Focus →
- Dew Focus →
- Sunlit Recovery Compass →
- Cycle Horizon →
Frequently asked questions
What does Myrrh essential oil smell like?
Myrrh has a deep, resinous aroma, classed as a resinous oil with a base note.
What is the safe dilution for Myrrh?
For topical use, keep Myrrh at or below 5%, and 2.5% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Myrrh safe to use during pregnancy?
Myrrh is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any use.
Is Myrrh safe to use around children?
Myrrh is generally considered suitable for children when well diluted (from around 6 months). Consult a professional for young children.
Is Myrrh safe around pets?
For cats — generally lower-risk when well diluted and diffused sparingly; dogs — generally lower-risk when well diluted. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.
What does Myrrh blend well with?
Myrrh pairs well with Frankincense (Carterii), Lavender, Sandalwood (Australian), Patchouli, Cedarwood (Atlas).