Medicinal Properties of Murmakki (Commiphora Myrrha Engl.): A Systematic Review

Abstract

Medicinal plants have a long-term record of use in history, and one of them is Murmakki. It is a yellowish oleo gum resin distributed in dry arid regions. The objectives of the study were to investigate and comprehend the medicinal properties of Murmakki, to review scientific information on medicinal properties of Murmakki and to compile the Unani compound preparation with Murmakki. Relevant literatures were accessed via electronic data bases and Unani classical books to review the relevant studies on the Medicinal properties of Murmakki. The articles with incomplete data, duplicate reports and other language reports except English were excluded and other full text records and Unani classical texts were included in this research. 88 journals were retrieved and 33 articles were selected for the review. Throughout the history it has been used for treating wounds, mouth ulcers, aches, gynecological disorders, stomach disorders, microbial infections, and inflammatory diseases. Unani classical texts mentioned its actions as Daf e tafun (Antiseptic), Muhallil (Resolvent), Mudir e haiz (Emmenagogue), Qabis (Astringent), Qatil e Kirm e Shikam (Anthelmintic), Jali (Detergent), Mufattih (Deobstruent), Mujaffif (Siccative), Musakhin (Calorific), Kasurriyah (Carminative), Munaffis e Balgham (Expectorant) and Tiryaq (Antidote). Phytochemical studies have shown that it contains gum, resin and bitter principles such as Flavonoids, Alkaloids, Tannins, Glycosides, Steroids, Saponins, Terpenoids, Carbohydrates, Organic compounds and Minerals. Research has shown that it exerts various biological activities such as Antiinflammatory, Antioxidant, Anti-microbial, Anti-proliferative and Analgesic. This review highlights an updated information on the history, distribution, uses, phytochemical components, pharmacology, and various biological activities of Murmakki. 20 scientific studies were conducted to assess the therapeutic potential of this herb especially for its wound healing and Anti-inflammatory properties and found to be effective.