Peruvian Myrrh incense

The name Commiphora is derived from the Greek words kommi, from which we get the word gum, and phoros, which means bearing. To harvest the resin of this 'carrier of gum named Myrrh', which becomes soft and liquid and is freely discharged when the bark is slightly damaged, not only the naturally forming 'pearls' are taken from the branches, but the stem is cut in different places as well. Just like rubber trees the ducts in the bark are slowly emptied. Once the tree is cut this way, it must be left for six to twentyfour months before it can be harvested again.

The resin initially flows out of the tree as a pale yellow liquid, but hardens to a reddish-brown mass with a rough and powdered surface.

Myrrh resin has been used from remote ages as an ingredient in incense and perfumes, in the holy oil of the Jews (which also contained kanehbosm, or cannabis), and the Egyptians used it in their Kyphi incense, as an antiseptic and for embalming the dead.

Burning myrrh is believed to send evil spirits away. It purifies ritual tools and is believed to bring good fortune and money. Myrrh fortifies the nerves and emotions. It replaces feelings of apathy, weakness and lack of initiative with motivation, power and strength. Myrrh provides the clarity, focus and strength to pull through troubled times. Its cooling and calming effect subdues angry or inflamed emotional states.

Usage

One of the easiest methods of burning is to light a piece of shisha coal in a suitable incense holder and let it heat up. Once the coal is hot, all you need to do is put as much incense as you want on top of the coal. It will begin smoking almost immediately and melt into the coal. You can continue burning incense as long as the coal remains hot. If you want it to burn longer, simply place another piece of coal into the burning container with the others. It’s a wonderful way to greet guests for gatherings by burning some on your porch next to the entry door, or any place you want to set a special mood. The fragrance is very strong either burning or unlit.