Murmakki (Commiphora myrrha): An Integrative Review of Unani Medicine, Phytochemistry and Pharmacological Evidence
Abstract
Background: Murmakki, commonly known as myrrh and botanically identified as Commiphora myrrha (T.Nees) Engl., is an important oleo-gum-resin used in Unani medicine for various inflammatory, infectious, gastrointestinal, respiratory, wound-related and gynaecological conditions. Despite its longstanding traditional use, the available evidence remains scattered across classical literature and modern scientific studies. Objective: This review aims to provide an integrative and critical overview of Murmakki, with particular emphasis on its Unani traditional concepts, botanical and pharmacognostic characteristics, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological activities, clinical evidence, safety, and quality-control considerations. Methods: Relevant literature was reviewed from classical Unani texts, pharmacognostic references, and scientific databases including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Google Scholar. Published literature concerning Commiphora myrrha, Murmakki, myrrh, phytochemistry, pharmacology, clinical studies, safety, and Unani medicinal applications was evaluated and organised according to the level of available evidence. Results: C. myrrha contains diverse phytoconstituents, particularly terpenoids and characteristic furanosesquiterpenes. Experimental studies have reported anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, antioxidant, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, cytotoxic and gastroprotective activities. These findings provide varying degrees of preclinical support for several traditional applications. However, clinical evidence remains limited, and differences in botanical source, chemical composition, extraction methods, and standardization affect reproducibility and interpretation. Conclusion: Murmakki demonstrates considerable pharmacological potential; however, most evidence remains preclinical. Proper botanical authentication, chemical standardization, detailed safety evaluation, and well-designed clinical trials are required to establish its efficacy, safety, dosage, and therapeutic relevance.
Keywords: Murmakki; Commiphora myrrha; Myrrh; Unani medicine; oleo-gum-resin; Phytochemistry; Pharmacology
Keywords:
Murmakki, Commiphora myrrha, Myrrh, Unani medicine, oleo-gum-resin, Phytochemistry, PharmacologyDOI
https://doi.org/10.22270/jddt.v16i9.8008References
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Copyright (c) 2026 Usmani Misba Adam Ali , Shaik Adeena Parveen , Khan Neha, Ayesha Siddiqua , Abdul Azeez , Abdul Nasir Ansari
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