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Myrrh |
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myrrh: see incense-tree incense-tree, common name for members of the Burseraceae, a family of sometimes deciduous shrubs and large trees found chiefly in tropical America and NE Africa. The name derives from the characteristic aromatic oils or resins that occur in all parts of the plant. ..... Click the link for more information. . myrrh 1. any of several burseraceous trees and shrubs of the African and S Asian genus Commiphora, esp C. myrrha, that exude an aromatic resin 2. another name for sweet cicely 3. the resin obtained from such a plant, used in perfume, incense, and medicine myrrh [mər] (materials) A gum resin of species of myrrh (Commiphora); partially soluble in water, alcohol, and ether; used in dentifrices, perfumery, and pharmaceuticals. myrrh symbol of gladness. [Flower Symbolism: Flora Symbolica, 176]
See : Joy Myrrh an aromatic gum resin that exudes from wounds in the trunks of trees of the genus Commiphora (C. abyssinica and C. schimperi) of the family Burseraceae. The trees are native to southern Arabia and Ethiopia. The resin hardens when exposed to the air, forming irregularly shaped yellow or brown globules. The globules have a pleasant odor and a spicy, bitter flavor. Myrrh contains 50–55 percent gum, 25–35 percent resin (myrrhin), and 2–6 percent volatile oil (myrrhole), as well as bitter principles of undetermined composition. It has an antiseptic action and is used as a gargle (in the form of tinctures), for dressing wounds, and in the preparation of bunduges and oint ments. It was also used as incense in religious rites and as a spice. Want to thank TFD for its existence? Tell a friend about us, add a link to this page, add the site to iGoogle, or visit the webmaster's page for free fun content. |
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