The Myrrh Tree.
Myrrha.
A tree concerning which we have but very imperfect accounts, and those not well warranted for genuine. All that we hear of it is, that the branches are numerous, and have thorns on them; that the leaves are oblong, broad, and of a strong smell, and that the bark of the trunk is rough, and of a greyish colour.
The gum resin called myrrh, is certainly procured from some tree in the hot countries, but whether this be a true description of that tree, there is no certainty. The gum itself is a very great medicine; it opens all obstructions of the viscera; is good in consumptions, jaundices, and dropsies; and is excellent for promoting the menses, and assisting, in the natural and necessary discharges after delivery: it is to be given in powder; the tincture dissolves it but imperfectly; but this is excellent against disorders of the teeth and gums.
