Is Myrrh an Aphrodisiac? What Science and History Say

Many people want a scent that can spark romance. But it’s hard to know which ingredients truly help set the mood. Myrrh is a scent used for thousands of years, but does it really help with desire or connection?

Most “aphrodisiac” claims online are confusing. Some are myths. Some come from culture. And some have real science behind them. When it comes to myrrh, many people do not know that it has strong history and surprising scientific support.

This article breaks it down in simple terms: what myrrh is, what science shows, and why cultures around the world have used it in love, rituals, and romance.

Introduction to Myrrh

Myrrh comes from the resin of the Commiphora tree. It has a warm, deep, smoky scent. People have used it for perfumes, oils, and rituals for thousands of years. Today, it is loved for its calming smell and its ability to create a warm, romantic space.

Scientific and Clinical Evidence

While there are no major human trials yet, studies on animals and chemistry give helpful clues about why myrrh can support desire and mood.

Helps the Body Relax

Myrrh contains natural compounds that work on the brain’s calming pathways. These compounds can lower stress and help the mind feel safe and relaxed — a key part of romance. Researchers found that myrrh interacts with the body’s opioid receptors, which help reduce tension and improve mood. This relaxing effect makes it easier to feel close and intimate.¹

Supports Male Sexual Health (Animal Studies)

Studies on male rats show that myrrh can protect and improve sexual health under stress:

• Myrrh raised testosterone levels in diabetic rats.²

• It improved sperm count and sperm health.²

• It protected the testes from alcohol-related damage and kept hormone levels steady.³

These results show that myrrh’s compounds can help the body stay balanced, which supports desire, energy, and confidence.

Why This Matters for Humans

These effects — relaxation, improved mood, antioxidant support, and hormone protection — are all linked to better sexual desire. Even though the studies were in animals, they explain why myrrh has been seen as sensual for thousands of years.

Cultural and Historical Perspectives

Myrrh has one of the longest love-and-romance histories of any scent on Earth.

Ancient Love Symbol

In the Song of Solomon, a book filled with romantic poetry, myrrh is mentioned many times as a scent of passion and closeness — even worn “between the breasts” as a symbol of love.⁴

Used in Beauty and Seduction

In ancient Israel, Queen Esther bathed in myrrh oil for six months as part of a beauty ritual before meeting the king.⁵This shows its deep link to sensuality and attraction.

Myth and Desire

In Greek myths, Myrrha — a figure tied to desire and forbidden love — was transformed into a myrrh tree. The resin (myrrh) was seen as her tears, connecting the scent to passion and emotion.⁶

Aromatherapy Today

Modern aromatherapy still uses myrrh in “romance blends.” Its warm, smoky scent creates a cozy, safe, intimate mood. When mixed with oils like frankincense, rose, or sandalwood, it becomes even more sensual.⁷

Conclusion

So, is myrrh an aphrodisiac?Yes — but in a gentle, natural way.

Myrrh does not “increase libido” instantly like a drug. Instead, it works by:

• calming the mind

• creating a warm romantic atmosphere

• reducing stress

• supporting hormone balance (shown in animal studies)

• connecting deeply to centuries of sensual tradition

This combination makes myrrh one of the most powerful “mood-setting” scents — perfect for romance, relaxation, and emotional closeness.

If you want a scent that feels ancient, warm, and intimate, myrrh is one of the best choices.

References

1. Stuart E. Myrrh Essential Oil: A Window into The Past. Vinevida. https://www.vinevida.com/. Published 2023. Accessed 2024.

2. Hassanzadeh-Taheri M, et al. The oleo-gum-resin of Commiphora myrrha ameliorates male reproductive dysfunctions in STZ-induced hyperglycemic rats. Pharm Sci. 2019;25(4):294-302.

3. Alahmari A. Myrrh attenuates gonadal toxicity… in male rats. Indian J Anim Res. 2023;57(11):1438-1447.

4. Song of Solomon 1:13, Hebrew Bible.

5. Book of Esther 2:12, Hebrew Bible.

6. Moriel A. Aphrodisiac of the Day: Myrrh. SmellyBlog. 2012.

7. AromaWeb. Guide to Essential Oil Aphrodisiacs. https://www.aromaweb.com/. Accessed 2024.