Commiphora
- Flower nameCommiphora
- Scientific nameCommiphora myrrha
- AliasJapanese pepper, 山椒, 木の芽
- Place of origin Africa
- Place of floweringOverseas
- Flowering seasonAugust, September
What is Commiphora
Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) is a deciduous thorny shrub belonging to the genus Commiphora (Myrrh tree genus) in the Burseraceae family, native to Africa and Southwest Asia.
It is also known as Myrrh (没薬, Motsuyaku), Myrrh Tree, and Commiphora.
When the tree is wounded, a reddish-brown gum resin called "Myrrh" is collected.
Myrrh is considered an aromatic resinous substance with medicinal properties. Historically, it has been used as an embalming agent to preserve mummies in ancient Egypt; in Islam, Muhammad stated, "Fumigate your houses with artemisia, myrrh, and thyme"; in the New Testament, it was one of the gifts from the Three Wise Men to Christ at his birth. In modern times, it is used in fragrances and cosmetic perfumes for its relaxing effects, and in Chinese medicine as an analgesic (pain reliever).
Its fragrance is a complex blend of freshness, richness, sweetness, and incense-like notes.
Origin of the Name
Genus Name Origin: The genus name "Commiphora" comes from the Latin "commiphora," meaning "resin-bearing."
Species Epithet Origin: The species epithet "myrrha" is derived from the Hebrew word "mor," meaning "bitter."
Category : Detail
Common Name : Myrrh Tree (没薬樹, Motsuyakuju)
Scientific Name : Commiphora myrrha (Commiphora myrrh)
Classification : Order: Sapindales → Family: Burseraceae → Genus: Commiphora (Myrrh Tree Genus)
Native Region : Africa and the Middle East
Environment : Dry, rocky areas
Life Cycle : Shrub
Tree Height : 3–5 m (10–16 ft)
Trunk : Succulent
Branches : Thorny (with thorns)
Leaf Color : Green
Leaf Margin : Entire (smooth)
Leaf Shape : Simple / Trifoliate compound
Leaf Arrangement : Alternate
Blooming Period : August–September
Inflorescence Type : Panicle
Flower Color : White
Fruit Type : Drupe
Uses : Embalming agent for mummies, incense, medicinal herb (e.g., analgesic), essential oil, fragrance/perfume