An update review on commiphora molmol and related species

Abstract EN

The origins of myrrh and frankincense are traced to the Arabian Peninsula.

According to Herodotus (5th century BC) : "Arabia is the only country which produces frankincense, myrrh, cassia, and cinnamon.., the trees bearing the frankincense are guarded by winged serpents of small size and various colors.

"Diodorus Siculus wrote, in the second half of the first century BC, that "all of Arabia exudes a most delicate fragrance ; even the seamen passing by Arabia can smell the strong fragrance that gives health and vigor.

"He also mentioned gold mines so pure that no smelting was necessary.

The Magi, carrying myrrh, frankincense, and gold, came from the East : Arabia.

The frankincense trade route, with transport by donkeys and later by camel caravans, reached Jerusalem and Egypt from the Dhofar region of what is today Oman, through Yemen, turning north to follow the Red Sea coast.

It is likely that the same or similar species of the resin-bearing plants grew across the Red Sea in the area that is now Somalia and Ethiopia, while the collection of the gum resins was initiated in Arabia.

Myrrh contributed much in the human welfare.