Top 9 Myrtle Essential Oil Benefits: Respiratory, Liver & More

Myrtle essential oil benefits are profound and offer a variety of therapeutic benefits that span physical, emotional, and mental wellness. Its ability to support respiratory health, soothe inflammation, and promote emotional balance makes it a must-have addition to your natural medicine cabinet.

With a rich history rooted in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cultures, myrtle essential oil symbolizes love, peace, and renewal. Let’s explore its powerful benefits and how you can incorporate it into your daily life.

Source, Chemistry, & History of Myrtle Essential Oil

Myrtle (Myrtus communis) is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region and North Africa used for centuries in traditional medicine and spiritual practices. Cherished for millennia, it has been featured in ancient Greek and Roman traditions as a symbol of beauty and vitality.

Derived from the leaves and twigs of the Myrtus communis plant, today’s myrtle essential oil is extracted through steam distillation. This process preserves its key constituents, including 1,8-cineole, alpha-pinene, limonene, and myrtenol, which give the oil its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Its invigorating aroma, a blend of sweet, floral, and herbal notes, further enhances its therapeutic value.

Another type of myrtle, Lemon Myrtle (Backhousia citriodora), comes from another evergreen tree in the same Myrtaceae family. Lemon myrtle has a higher level of citral, giving it a stronger lemon scent. That’s why we use it in our lemon deodorizing blend!

In ancient times myrtle was associated with health and beauty and was often used in baths and cosmetics. Historically, myrtle leaves were used to create soothing poultices and herbal infusions, while the uplifting aroma of its fragrant white flowers was prized in perfumery.

Today, it remains a cornerstone in the natural healing of medical conditions, blending ancient wisdom with modern research. The leaves are brewed in a green tea for health purposes such as preventing liver disease, chewed to combat canker sores, or added to massage oils for skin health.

Nine Myrtle Essential Oil Benefits for Health

There are many proven health benefits to using this amazing essential oil, and it seems to boost the benefits of other essential oils.

1. Respiratory Function Support

Myrtle essential oil is renowned for its ability to promote clear and easy breathing. This shouldn’t be a surprise when you consider that the Myrtus communis is in the same botanical family as Eucalyptus. And the eucalyptus family is known for supporting respiratory function and relieving respiratory tract inflammation.

Its high concentration of 1,8-cineole helps loosen mucus, reduce inflammation in the airways, and soothe the respiratory tract. These properties make it an excellent choice for managing respiratory infections such as pneumonia and supporting relief in chronic conditions like asthma or bronchitis. Its lemony, uplifting aroma also doubles as an air purifier, refreshing indoor spaces.

Application Tip: Add 5 drops of myrtle oil to a diffuser, or mix with a carrier oil and apply to your chest for instant respiratory relief. Combine it with other essential oils proven to offer respiratory support.

2. Anti-inflammatory Effects

Inflammation is a natural response of the body, but chronic inflammation can lead to serious health problems, including joint pain, skin irritation, and more systemic conditions. Myrtle essential oil, with its high content of myrtenol, provides potent anti-inflammatory support. This compound reduces swelling and soothes irritated tissues, whether applied topically or inhaled.

In a study published in the Journal of Reports in Pharmaceutical Sciences, researchers investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of Myrtus communis (myrtle) on colitis, an inflammation of the colon. The study concluded that myrtle possesses notable anti-inflammatory properties, suggesting its potential as a natural remedy for inflammatory bowel diseases like colitis.

In traditional medicine, myrtle leaves were often crushed into poultices for wounds or inflamed areas. Today, myrtle oil is a natural alternative to synthetic anti-inflammatory medications, offering a safer option for those seeking relief from joint pain, muscle soreness, or inflammatory skin conditions like acne. Its ability to calm inflamed mucous membranes in the nose and throat further highlights its role as a comprehensive healing agent.

Application Tip: Combine 3 drops of myrtle oil with warm water to create a compress for sore muscles or inflamed joints. Dilute with a carrier oil and massage your abdomen to soothe digestive inflammation.

3. Antioxidant Power

Oxidative stress caused by free radicals is a significant contributor to aging and chronic diseases, affecting everything from your skin’s elasticity to the health of your internal organs. Myrtle essential oil constituents stand out as a natural powerhouse of antioxidants, including alpha-pinene and limonene, which help neutralize these harmful molecules before they can damage your cells. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology, the antioxidant activity of myrtle essential oil is linked to its ability to scavenge free radicals effectively, providing protective benefits that can slow down cellular degeneration and promote longevity.

In addition to its role in combating oxidative stress, myrtle essential oil may also repair damage caused by environmental pollutants, such as UV rays or toxins in the air. The same study highlights how the oil’s high levels of phenolic compounds contribute to its antioxidant capacity, making it a valuable tool for maintaining overall cellular health. Incorporating myrtle oil into your daily routine—whether as part of your skincare regimen or through diffusion—can support your body’s natural defense mechanisms and promote a youthful, radiant appearance inside and out.

Application Tip: Add a few drops of myrtle oil to your favorite massage oil, carrier oil, or your favorite skincare DIYs to enhance their antioxidant effects and encourage health that is more than skin deep.

4. Liver Support

The liver is a vital organ responsible for detoxifying the body, and myrtle essential oil has long been recognized for its hepatoprotective properties. Traditional medicine practices frequently used myrtle as a tonic to improve digestion and cleanse the liver. Modern research confirms that its compounds, including 1,8-cineole, may protect liver cells from damage caused by toxins, alcohol, or poor diet.

By promoting efficient bile flow and reducing oxidative stress in liver tissues, myrtle oil plays a key role in maintaining overall health. Incorporating it into a detox routine can also support blood circulation, ensuring that the liver functions optimally to filter impurities from the bloodstream.

Application Tip: Blend 2 drops of myrtle oil with lemon essential oil and massage it over your liver area to promote detoxification. Dilute with a carrier oil known to encourage detoxification, such as castor oil.

5. Blood Sugar Regulation

Managing blood sugar levels is a critical aspect of preventing or controlling diabetes, and myrtle essential oil offers promising support in this area. Its active constituents, including myrtenyl acetate, were shown in studies to help enhance insulin sensitivity and regulate glucose metabolism, helping the body maintain stable blood sugar levels. This makes myrtle oil a valuable tool for individuals with prediabetes or type 2 diabetes seeking natural, complementary solutions.

While lifestyle changes like a healthy diet and regular exercise remain essential, adding myrtle oil to your routine may amplify your efforts.

Application Tip: Massage diluted myrtle oil into your feet or diffuse it during mealtimes to support healthy blood sugar levels. It’s a star essential oil in one of our favorite blood sugar-balancing blends.

6. Chemotherapeutic Potential

Recent research highlights the potential anticancer properties of lemon myrtle essential oil (LMEO), particularly against breast cancer cells. A 2024 study found that LMEO exhibited strong antitumor effects, even when diluted more than 500-fold, thanks to its key component, citral. The study noted citral’s powerful action, with IC50 values of 1.67 µL/mL for geranial and 1.31 µL/mL for neral, demonstrating its ability to inhibit cancer cell growth and invasion. Impressively, LMEO had the strongest antitumor effects among tested oils while being gentle on healthy peripheral blood cells, suggesting a promising selective action against cancer cells.

While myrtle essential oil has shown promise in various cancer cell lines, including breast (MCF-7), liver (HepG2), and colon (HCT116), it’s important to note that most studies are in vitro or preclinical. The mechanisms of action may include inducing apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and antioxidant effects.

However, it’s crucial to emphasize that essential oils are not standalone cancer treatments. While these findings are encouraging, more research, especially clinical trials, is needed to fully understand myrtle essential oil’s role in cancer care. Always consult with healthcare professionals before considering essential oils as part of any health regimen, particularly in the context of cancer management.

Application Tip: Consult a healthcare professional about incorporating myrtle oil into supportive wellness routines for cancer care.

7. Skin Care, Acne and Blemish Control

Recent studies have highlighted myrtle essential oil’s significant benefits for skin health, particularly in managing acne and promoting a clear complexion and healthy-looking skin.

A clinical trial involving Korean women with acne-prone skin demonstrated that topical application of myrtle essential oil led to a noticeable reduction in acne lesions. The oil’s antimicrobial properties effectively combat acne-causing bacteria, while its anti-inflammatory effects help soothe irritated skin.

Additionally, myrtle’s astringent qualities assist in tightening pores and reducing excess oil production, contributing to a clearer and more balanced complexion. If you’re prone to oily skin this is an oil you’d want to add to your routine. The skin care benefits are multi-faceted.

Incorporating myrtle essential oil into your skincare routine can also provide antioxidant benefits, protecting the skin from free radical damage and promoting a youthful appearance. Its gentle nature makes it suitable for various skin types, including sensitive skin.

Application Tip: Dilute a few drops of myrtle essential oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil, and apply it to cleansed skin. To maximize skin care benefits, focus on areas prone to blemishes or oiliness. You can also add myrtle to one of Mama Z’s Facial Cleanser DIYs.

8. Synergistic Effects

Myrtle essential oil shines in its ability to enhance the effects of other oils, creating powerful blends for a range of health concerns. For respiratory health, it pairs exceptionally well with eucalyptus essential oil to amplify mucus-clearing effects.

Myrtle oil’s antimicrobial properties, attributed to its cineole content, make it useful for addressing minor infections and supporting immune function. While specific synergies with tea tree oil aren’t directly studied, combining oils with similar properties could potentially enhance their overall effectiveness.

The oil’s warm, delicate aroma contributes to its calming effects, which can help reduce anxiety and tension. This makes myrtle oil a good candidate for blends aimed at promoting emotional well-being

This versatility makes myrtle essential oil an invaluable tool for creating custom solutions tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re focusing on skincare, respiratory health, or emotional balance, myrtle’s synergistic properties ensure optimal results.

Application Tip: Blend myrtle oil with complementary oils for diffuser recipes, topical applications, or inhaler blends to experience its full synergistic potential.

9. Heart Health

A study published in Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine demonstrated the cardio-protective effects of myrtle essential oil, particularly in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation associated with cardiovascular conditions. By neutralizing free radicals and modulating inflammatory markers, myrtle oil may help protect blood vessels from damage and support healthy circulation.

The study also noted myrtle’s potential to improve lipid profiles, including reducing LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, which are major contributors to heart disease. These findings align with the oil’s traditional use in promoting overall vitality and longevity.

Application Tip: Add 2 drops of myrtle essential oil to a carrier oil, such as sweet almond or jojoba, and massage onto the chest or pulse points. Use it to complement our Heart Health Blend as well.

Liver Protecting Roll On Recipe with Myrtle EOs

Anethole is a chemical component of some essential oils known to reduce inflammation, fight cancer, and protect the liver from damage. Make this roll-on that is powered by anethole-rich oils, and use it daily to help your liver detox your body more effectively.

Safety Considerations

While myrtle essential oil is generally safe, proper dilution is essential to avoid skin irritation. If you aren’t sure about your sensitivity to it, conduct a patch test before use.

We would always recommend caution in using new essential oils on young children, during pregnancy, or in cases of known allergies. Always choose high-quality, pure essential oils for maximum benefits. Buying top-quality essential oils is vital.

Always store the oil away from direct sunlight and out of reach of noisy children to ensure safety.

Myrtle essential oil is a gift from nature, offering a wide range of benefits for body, mind, and spirit. From respiratory health to antioxidant protection, it’s a versatile and powerful tool for natural healing. Whether you’re new to essential oils or a seasoned user, myrtle oil deserves a place in your collection.

Try incorporating myrtle essential oil into your routine today and experience its amazing benefits firsthand!