The plant known formally as Myrtus communis, or common myrtle, is an evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean basin. It has a long history of use and has been cultivated since ancient times throughout the region for its aromatic qualities and medicinal properties.
Botanical Identity and Native Range of Myrtle
Myrtus communis is a broadleaf evergreen shrub that can grow up to 5 meters tall. Its glossy, dark green leaves are lanceolate, typically measuring 2–5 centimeters long, and are highly aromatic when crushed. This fragrance is due to the high content of essential oils stored within transparent glands visible on the leaf surface.
In late spring or summer, the shrub produces showy, star-like white flowers with numerous yellow-tipped stamens. These blossoms are followed by small, round berries that mature into a blue-black color, though a less common yellow-amber variety also exists. The plant belongs to the Myrtaceae family and is naturally distributed across the Mediterranean region, including Southern Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It is well-adapted to the dry soils and temperate conditions found in this native habitat.
Myrtle’s Role in Ancient Culture and Tradition
The cultural significance of myrtle spans millennia in ancient civilizations. In Greek mythology, the plant was sacred to Aphrodite, the goddess of love, symbolizing beauty, fidelity, and pleasure. The Romans similarly dedicated myrtle to their goddess of love, Venus, and used it in ceremonies celebrating marriage.
The Greeks also associated myrtle with peace, victory, and the goddess Demeter, linking it to the harvest. The leaves and sprigs were traditionally incorporated into bridal wreaths and bouquets across European cultures to represent purity and love. Ancient folk remedies utilized myrtle decoctions and extracts for treating external wounds, digestive disorders, and pulmonary issues. Dioscorides, a first-century Greek physician, even documented its use and classified the plant based on the color of its fruit.
Active Compounds and Biological Mechanisms
The biological activities of myrtle are attributed to the rich profile of compounds found in its essential oil and extracts. The volatile oil, extracted mainly from the leaves, contains monoterpenes and oxygenated monoterpenes, including alpha-pinene, 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), and myrtenyl acetate. These terpenes contribute to the plant’s antimicrobial and antifungal properties by disrupting the cell membranes of various pathogens.
The leaves also contain significant amounts of phenolic compounds, including flavonoids like quercetin and myricetin, which exhibit high antioxidant activity. This action helps neutralize damaging free radicals, protecting cells from oxidative stress and potentially reducing inflammation. Furthermore, myrtle contains unique oligomeric nonprenylated acylphloroglucinols, such as myrtucommulone A and B, which are being studied for their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic effects.
These complex molecules interact with various biological pathways, contributing to myrtle’s traditional use in treating inflammatory conditions of the skin and respiratory tract. For instance, the oil’s components can act as mucolytics, helping to clear airways. The chemical composition is variable depending on the plant’s origin, which influences the specific ratio of monoterpenes and their resulting therapeutic focus.
Modern Uses and Safety Considerations
Modern applications of myrtle utilize its potent aromatic and chemical profile across several industries. The essential oil is widely used in aromatherapy, perfume, and cosmetics for its clear, fresh scent. In the culinary realm, the berries and leaves flavor meat, particularly roasted pork, and are macerated in alcohol to produce the aromatic Mirto liqueur in Sardinia and Corsica.
Myrtle extracts are also included in various dietary supplements marketed for respiratory support and antiseptic properties. While the berries are generally considered safe for short-term consumption, the undiluted essential oil requires extreme caution. The oil contains a chemical that can pose serious risks, including respiratory distress and lung failure.
The internal use of myrtle oil is strongly discouraged for infants, small children, and those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Diluted extracts applied topically may cause minor skin irritation or dryness.