Myrtus communis (Myrtus communis): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Evidence

Frequently asked questions

How does Myrtus communis work as an antimicrobial?

Myrtus communis exerts its effects primarily through volatile oils and flavonoids like myricetin and quercetin. The active compound myrtucommulone has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties in laboratory studies by inhibiting enzymes involved in the inflammation process. Additionally, the tannins provide astringent effects useful for wound healing. Evidence for these specific mechanisms is currently limited to in vitro and animal studies (Evidence Level C), suggesting potential benefits but requiring further clinical validation in humans.

Does Myrtus communis interact with any medications?

There is currently limited clinical data regarding specific drug interactions for Myrtus communis. However, due to its potential hypoglycemic and blood pressure-lowering effects observed in preliminary research, it may theoretically interact with antidiabetic or antihypertensive medications. Because myrtle contains tannins, it may also interfere with the absorption of certain drugs or iron supplements if taken simultaneously. Patients on prescription medications should consult a healthcare provider before use.

What is the recommended dosage for Myrtus communis tea?

The standard adult dosage for Myrtus communis is typically 2 to 4 grams of dried leaves prepared as a tea. To prepare, steep the dried leaves in boiling water for approximately 10 to 15 minutes. This preparation is traditionally used for respiratory or urinary complaints. If using the essential oil, it must be diluted in a carrier oil for topical application; internal use of the essential oil is generally contraindicated due to toxicity risks.

Is Myrtus communis safe to use during pregnancy?

Myrtus communis is considered unsafe during pregnancy and breastfeeding. The plant contains compounds that may stimulate uterine contractions or be toxic to the fetus. Internal use of the essential oil is strictly contraindicated. Due to a lack of safety data and potential abortifacient properties, pregnant women should avoid myrtle supplements and essential oils entirely. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal remedies while pregnant.

What are the side effects of Myrtus communis essential oil?

The primary side effect associated with Myrtus communis is skin irritation or contact dermatitis caused by applying undiluted essential oil directly to the skin. Proper dilution in a carrier oil is necessary to prevent this reaction. Internal consumption of the essential oil can lead to more severe symptoms, including nausea or nervous system effects. Traditional use of the leaf tea is generally well-tolerated, though allergic reactions are possible in sensitive individuals.

PubMed-compiled information sheet

This sheet was compiled from PubMed (NIH) abstracts using AI assistance. Every factual claim is cited to a real PubMed article (see the source list). It has not yet been human-reviewed — confirm with a healthcare provider before use.

Compiled from 30 PubMed articles · model: gemma4:31b

Summary

Myrtus communis, also known as common Myrtle, is a Mediterranean flowering plant with documented antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties [PMID:37464095, PMID:41792365].

Background

Myrtus communis (Family: Myrtaceae) is an evergreen shrub or small tree native to the Mediterranean region, including Southern Europe, North Africa, and western Asia [PMID:20309828, PMID:38319389]. It is utilized in pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, spices, food, and traditional medicine [PMID:38319389].

Traditional uses

Traditionally used to treat diarrhea, inflammation, bleeding, headache, pulmonary diseases, skin diseases [PMID:37464095, PMID:24497171], and oral ulcers/aphthous (Gholaa) in Iranian traditional medicine [PMID:27693775].

Active compounds

Bioactive constituents include polyphenols, flavonoids, phenolic acids, alkaloids, coumarins, saponosides, tannins, quinines, and anthraquinones [PMID:38319389, PMID:30103510]. Essential oil components primarily consist of alpha-pinene, 1,8-cineole (eucalyptol), limonene, linalyl acetate, and myrtenyl acetate [PMID:35779645, PMID:36432885, PMID:34288384]. Specific compounds such as myrtucommulone and semimyrtucommulone have also been isolated [PMID:24497171, PMID:11908974].

Mechanism of action

The herb exhibits high antioxidant content that protects against chemical and natural toxins [PMID:37464095]. It demonstrates anti-inflammatory effects and may target steroidogenesis pathways to mitigate reproductive toxicity [PMID:41792365, PMID:42119984].

Clinical evidence

Evidence CHemorrhoids (Types I and II)

Essential oil used as a lotion or ointment significantly improved bleeding, permanent pain, pain during defecation, anal irritation, itching, and heaviness, including in patients unresponsive to chemical treatments [PMID:28844211].

Evidence BAcne Vulgaris (Mild to Moderate)

A split-face clinical trial compared a Myrtle formula to 1% clindamycin topical solution for efficacy and safety over 16 weeks [PMID:33408898].

Evidence DBacterial Infections

Crude preparations showed antibacterial activity against S. aureus, P. mirabilis, P. vulgaris, Klebsiella, S. typhi, P. aeruginosa, Shigella, and E. coli [PMID:18711991].

Evidence DGastrointestinal Parasites (Animal Model)

Essential oil demonstrated ovicidal effects against Haemonchus contortus (IC50 = 0.7 mg/mL) and anthelmintic potential against Heligmosomoides polygyrus [PMID:35779645].

Evidence DGastric Ulcers (Animal Model)

Aqueous and methanolic extracts of berries significantly reduced the ulcer index in ethanol, indomethacin, and pyloric ligation models [PMID:20197454].

Evidence summary

The evidence consists primarily of in vitro studies, animal models (rats, zebrafish), and review articles. There is limited clinical evidence, including one split-face trial for acne and a review of clinical studies for hemorrhoids.

PubMed sources

1.PMID: 37464095 (2023) — A review of the biological effects of Myrtus communis. · Physiological reports
2.PMID: 30103510 (2018) — Antioxidant Activity of Myrtus communis L. and Myrtus nivellei Batt. & Trab. Extracts: A Brief Review. · Medicines (Basel, Switzerland)
3.PMID: 35779645 (2022) — Assessment of anthelmintic potentials of Myrtus communis against Haemonchus contortus and Heligmosomoides polygyrus. · Experimental parasitology
4.PMID: 38319389 (2024) — The therapeutic value of Myrtus communis L.: an updated review. · Naunyn-Schmiedeberg's archives of pharmacology
5.PMID: 28844211 (2017) — Effectiveness of Myrtus communis in the treatment of hemorrhoids. · Journal of integrative medicine

Myrtus communis

Sources & Citations

Calculate a safe dose of Myrtus communis