Myrrh oil is an essential oil derived from a tree called Commiphora myrrha. For centuries, it has been valued for its health benefits, which range from an ability to fight infectious bacteria to the improvement of skin health. If you have a bottle of myrrh oil on hand or are thinking of buying one from your local health food store, you may be wondering how to use it. Thankfully, you have options. Here are three ways to harness the power of myrrh oil. 

Apply it topically to any lesions, especially infected ones.

If you have any cuts, scrapes, burns, or other sore spots, you can dilute myrrh oil with a milder, inert oil, such as olive oil or almond oil, and apply it directly to the spots. The myrrh oil will act as an antibiotic ointment, helping to prevent the wound from becoming infected or even to treat a minor infection. Myrrh oil can also be helpful in treating fungal lesions, such as those caused by athlete's foot or ringworm. In any case, make sure you clean and gently dry the area before applying it, and apply two or three times per day for best results.

Diffuse it.

Another way to use myrrh oil is to place it in a diffuser. You can mix it with some water in a small vaporizing diffuser, or you can even simmer a pot of water with a little myrrh oil added on the stove. The vapors will help kill any bacteria and viruses lingering in your home's air, which might be helpful during cold and flu season. The scent is also known to be relaxing, so it can help ease your stress and make it easier for you to sleep at night.

Use it as a potpourri.

If diffusing seems like too much work, but you still want the scent of myrrh oil in your home for therapeutic reasons, you can use the oil to make your own potpourri. Find or buy a few pine cones, or maybe a couple of cedar wood chips. Apply a couple of drops of the oil to each pine cone or cedar chip. You don't need much! Keep these scented goodies in a bowl in your living room or dining room. Every month or two, you can refresh their scent with another couple of drops of myrrh oil. Use several bowls throughout your space if you have a bigger home. 

If you want to use myrrh oil in your home but don't currently have any, look for suppliers like Ancient Essence INC.