Myrtle Leaf is a highly praised plant that in ancient times was associated with love. Today, people are in love with its overall health effects.
Myrtle is a beautifully aromatic evergreen shrub whose fruit, leaves, branches, stems, berries and roots are subtle hues of pale yellow and orange. The plant, slightly sweet with a camphor tone, traditionally has been used to make medicine.
Native to North Africa and the Mediterranean region, myrtle’s clear, fresh scent is popular in potpourri blends and candles. Myrtle’s popularity dates back to ancient Greece, where it reputedly was a sacred plant of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. The Greeks used myrtle for love, protection and fidelity.
Today, myrtle in both oil and dry form is a healthy ingredient in many plant-based and health-focused foods. The leaves and berries are also used as a spice in Mediterranean and North African cuisines.
Myrtle’s health benefits are legion. For example, myrtle is a major ingredient in cough medicines and flavorful throat lozenges.
Myrtle also can calm bladder conditions, aid digestion, regulate the GI tract and soothe persistent heartburn. Its pain-reducing properties can help women alleviate the discomfort of menstruation. Much like tea tree derivatives and eucalyptus, myrtle also supports respiratory health and promotes heathy veins and circulation.
Expect to see more myrtle leaf use in foods and beverages to help add a calming effect for the body.
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