Myrtle
Synonym(s)
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
Myrtle (Myrtus communis), also known as common myrtle, is an evergreen shrub from the myrtle family (Myrtaceae) that grows up to 5 m tall. Myrtle is native to the Mediterranean region, but is also cultivated in northern European countries. The coarse, lanceolate leaves have short stalks, the small, white flowers are numerous and have an intense fragrance. The ovaries develop into 1 cm large, blue-black berries. see also myrti folium, myrtle oil, myrtenol. Flowering time: May and August, fruit ripening: August to October.
Myrtle played an important role in Greek mythology. Myrtle was dedicated to the goddess Aphrodite.
Commission E: not processed
HMPC: not processed
ESCOP: not processed
Studies: Myrtle oil obtained by steam distillation is used in finished medicinal products for the treatment of colds, in particular because of the cineole it contains, e.g. Gelo Myrtol® forte.
The ethanolic extract (Myrticine®) has antiproliferative, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties and is used, for example, in the treatment of acne.
Ingredient(s)This section has been translated automatically.
Note(s)This section has been translated automatically.
Naturopathy: Myrtus communis is the parent plant of Myrti Folium (Folia Myrti), the myrtle leaves used medicinally. The essential oil of the leaves has a secretolytic effect. In topicals, myrtle extracts have an anti-inflammatory effect.
Cosmetics: Under the INCI designation"Myrtus communis oil", the essential oil obtained by steam distillation from the twigs and leaves (possibly also the flowers) of the myrtle bush is used in cosmetic formulations.
Myrtle extracts also have culinary significance. They are used as a spice for meat dishes (e.g. in mortadella sausage) and in the production of liqueurs (Mirto Rosso).
LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.
- Montag A (2023) Plants and skin. Springer-Verlag Ltd. S. 739-741.
- https://www.awl.ch/heilpflanzen/myrtus_communis/myrte.htm
- Fiorini-Puybaret C et al. (202) Pharmacological properties of Myrtacine® and its potential value in acne treatment. Planta Med. 77(14):1582-9. doi: 10.1055/s-0030-1270955. Epub 2011 Mar 30. Erratum in: Planta Med. 2011 Sep;77(14):E12. PMID: 21452108.