# Myrrh: history, meaning and how to burn it

> Myrrh is the dried resin of Commiphora trees, with a warm, bitter-sweet, earthy smoke. Its history and traditional uses, how to burn it safely, scent pairings

URL: https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/incense-and-herbs/myrrh
Updated: 2026-10-30

Myrrh is the dried resin of Commiphora trees, from Somalia, Ethiopia, Yemen and Oman. It gives a warm, bitter-sweet, earthy smoke.

## History

Myrrh was used in ancient Egyptian embalming and temple incense, and is one of the gifts of the Magi. It is often paired with frankincense: the sweet and the bitter.

## Traditional uses

Traditionally burned for remembrance, reflection and protection, and around Samhain to honour ancestors.

These are traditional and spiritual uses, not health claims.

## How to burn it

Use small pieces on charcoal; a little goes a long way. Ventilate the room.

## Burning safely

- Use a heatproof holder or bowl, on a stable surface away from curtains and shelves.
- Open a window a little; smoke should clear, not build up.
- Never leave burning incense alone, and keep it away from children, pets and birds.
- Put it out fully in sand or a dish of water when you are done.

## Scents that pair well

Myrrh blends well with [frankincense](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/incense-and-herbs/frankincense), [sandalwood](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/incense-and-herbs/sandalwood) and [patchouli](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/incense-and-herbs/patchouli).

## Questions

**What does myrrh smell like?**

A warm, bitter-sweet, earthy smoke.

**What is myrrh used for?**

Traditionally burned for remembrance, reflection and protection, and around Samhain to honour ancestors.

**Where does myrrh come from?**

Somalia, Ethiopia, Yemen and Oman.

**Is myrrh safe to burn indoors?**

Yes, myrrh is fine to burn indoors with sensible care. Open a window, use a heatproof holder on a stable surface, keep it away from curtains, children and pets, and never leave it burning unattended. If you have asthma or are sensitive to smoke, a diffuser or [oil burner](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/how-to-use/oil-burners) is a gentler choice.

**How do you burn myrrh?**

Myrrh is easy to burn at home: use small pieces on charcoal; a little goes a long way. Ventilate the room. Light the charcoal disc first, wait until it greys over, then add a small piece of resin. Always ventilate the room.

**What goes well with myrrh?**

Myrrh blends well with [Frankincense](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/incense-and-herbs/frankincense), [Sandalwood](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/incense-and-herbs/sandalwood) and [Patchouli](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/incense-and-herbs/patchouli). Burn them one after another or mix small amounts on charcoal; tradition pairs scents to deepen or balance the mood. Start with less than you think, as blends can be strong. See our [incense guide](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/guides/incense-types-explained).

**Is myrrh a resin?**

Yes, myrrh is the dried resin of Commiphora trees. It comes from Somalia, Ethiopia, Yemen and Oman and gives a warm, bitter-sweet, earthy smoke. Knowing the type helps you choose how to burn it: resins need charcoal, while woods, herbs and flowers are usually sold as sticks, cones or bundles.

## Related

- [Frankincense](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/incense-and-herbs/frankincense)
- [Sandalwood](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/incense-and-herbs/sandalwood)
- [Patchouli](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/incense-and-herbs/patchouli)
- [All incense and herbs](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/incense-and-herbs)
- [Incense types explained](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/guides/incense-types-explained)
- [Smoke cleansing traditions](https://www.starseeduk.co.uk/guides/smoke-cleansing-traditions)

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Starseed UK describes spiritual uses as tradition and belief, never as health or medical claims. UK delivery £3.95, free over £40.