Myrrh Absolute Oil is a thick, reddish-brown cosmetic-grade extract taken from the resin of the Commiphora myrrha tree, prized for its warm, earthy and balsamic aroma. It is used mainly in high-end skincare, perfumes, creams, lotions and wellness blends — not for eating or drinking.
What is Myrrh Absolute Oil?
Absolutes are highly concentrated aromatic extracts obtained through solvent extraction rather than steam distillation. This gives myrrh absolute a fuller, deeper scent than the distilled essential oil, along with a dense, semi-solid consistency. At Azlok, the myrrh absolute is a solid, thick form that softens with gentle warmth, making it ideal for perfumers and formulators who want a rich, long-lasting base note.
Key details worth knowing: botanical name Commiphora myrrha, CAS No. 8016-37-3, FEMA #2334, specific gravity 0.860–0.950 at 25°C, and a shelf life of around two years when stored well. The odour is described as warm, earthy, woody and balsamic.
Common uses
- Perfumery: A classic base note that adds warmth, depth and staying power to natural and fine fragrances.
- Skincare formulations: Added in small amounts to creams, lotions, balms and facial oils for its aroma and traditional association with mature or dry skin care.
- Candles and soaps: Used sparingly to give a resinous, incense-like character to soy candles and cold-process soaps.
- Wellness and aromatherapy blends: Combined with other oils for grounding, meditative scent profiles.
How to use it
Because it is a solid, thick absolute, warm the container gently in a warm-water bath (never direct flame) so the product becomes workable. Measure small quantities — a little goes a long way.
- Dilute first. For skin applications, blend into a carrier oil such as jojoba, sweet almond or coconut. A typical cosmetic use level is low; keep it to a small percentage of the total formula.
- Blend thoughtfully. Myrrh pairs beautifully with spicy, citrus and floral notes. Try frankincense, lemon and lavender for a balanced, layered accord.
- Test the scent. Because absolutes are strong, add a drop at a time and let the blend settle before deciding.
Blends that work well
Myrrh sits comfortably at the base of most compositions. For a warm, resinous incense feel, combine it with frankincense. Add lemon or bergamot to lift it, or lavender and rose for a softer floral-balsamic effect. In candles and soaps, it also plays nicely with cinnamon, clove and sandalwood-type notes.
Safety notes
- External use only. This is a cosmetic and fragrance material — do not ingest it.
- Always patch-test. Apply a small diluted amount to the inner forearm and wait 24 hours before wider use.
- Dilute properly. Never apply the neat absolute directly to skin.
- Avoid during pregnancy unless advised by a qualified professional, as myrrh is traditionally cautioned against in pregnancy.
- Keep away from children and pets, and store away from heat and open flame (flash point around 100°C).
Buying and storage tips
Azlok offers Myrrh Absolute Oil starting from a 10 ml sample at ₹209, with larger packs of 50 gm, 100 gm, 500 gm, 1 kg, 5 kg and 10 kg for makers and small businesses. If you are new to absolutes, the sample size is a sensible way to test the aroma and how it behaves in your recipes before committing to bulk.
To protect the aroma, keep the oil in a tightly closed, dark glass container away from sunlight, heat and moisture. Stored correctly, it holds well for around two years. If it has thickened or solidified, warm it gently before use — this is normal for an absolute and does not mean it has spoiled.
FAQ
Is Myrrh Absolute Oil the same as myrrh essential oil?
No. The absolute is solvent-extracted and tends to be thicker and richer in scent, while the essential oil is usually steam-distilled and more fluid. Both come from Commiphora myrrha but differ in consistency and aroma depth.
Can I apply it directly to my skin?
Not undiluted. Always blend it into a carrier oil at a low concentration and do a 24-hour patch test first.
What does it smell like?
Warm, earthy, woody and balsamic — a deep resinous base note that works well in incense-style and grounding blends.
What oils blend well with myrrh?
Spicy, citrus and floral oils such as frankincense, lemon and lavender complement it nicely.
How should I store it?
In a sealed dark glass bottle, away from light, heat and moisture. It keeps for about two years and can be gently warmed if it solidifies.