Botanical Overview
Myrtle (Myrtus communis) is a flowering plant in the Myrtaceae family. Traditional medicine systems have documented several valuable applications for this species, supported by its observed therapeutic effects. The myrtle family (Myrtaceae) includes trees and shrubs with opposite leaves that contain aromatic oil glands. The flowers are showy with numerous stamens, and the fruits are often fleshy berries or capsules. Many species produce essential oils with antiseptic and antimicrobial properties.
General Description
It is an evergreen shrub native to southern Europe, North Africa, Western Asia, Macaronesia, and the Indian subcontinent, and also cultivated. The plant is an evergreen shrub or small tree, growing to 5 metres (16 ft) tall. The leaves are 2–5 centimetres (1–2 in) long, with a fragrant essential oil. The flowers are white or tinged with pink, with five petals and many stamens that protrude from the flower. The fruit is an edible berry, blue-black when ripe. The essential oils derived from this plant have anti-proliferative and anti-quorum sensing properties, helping against food spoilage. The berries are also macerated in alcohol to make Mirto liqueur. This species and the more compact M. communis subsp. tarentina have won the Royal Horticultural Society’s Award of Garden Merit. They are hardy but prefer a sheltered position in full sun. The plant can be propagated with seeds stratified for 3 months. Also, one can use a cutting with a short heel (small part of the bark), keeping it in moistened rooting mix.
Family Context
The Myrtaceae family is primarily tropical and subtropical. Notable medicinal members include:
- Guava — 57 documented uses
- Melaleuca leucadendron — 49 documented uses
- Clove — 45 documented uses
- Blue Gum — 44 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Myrtle has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Spain, France, Greece, Croatia, Israel, and others.
Traditional Uses
Myrtle has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and skin and wound care, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Dyspepsia
- Stomachic
- Carminative
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Respiratory conditions.
- Bronchitis
- Pectoral
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Skin and wound care.
- Wound
For skin conditions, the fresh or dried plant is applied topically as a poultice, wash, or compress. A strong decoction can be used to clean wounds and sores. The antimicrobial properties help prevent infection while promoting tissue repair.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities
- Tannin: astringent compounds that tighten tissues and resist infection