Myrtle Leaf Profile
Also known as
Myrtus communis, true myrtle, common myrtle, sweet myrtle, Greek myrtle
Introduction
Myrtle is found throughout the Mediterranean, as well as in some tropical and sub-tropical regions. It is an evergreen shrub or small tree with star-like flowers that have an exceedingly large amount of stamens and blue-black berries. The flowers bloom in summer, and the berries ripen in fall and early winter.
Parts Used
The leaves are used predominantly, but the whole plant can be utilized for different applications involving myrtle?s pleasant scent.
Typical Preparations
The leaves can be used as a tea, as well as cooking and grilling meats and vegetables. Used as firewood, it transmits a spicy aromatic flavor to whatever it is grilled over. The berries are edible but seldom eaten as they are quite bitter. The berries have been processed into jam, and at times been used as a substitute for black pepper. All parts of the plant can be used for a myriad of fragrant pursuits.
Summary
Myrtle was considered sacred to both Aphrodite and Demeter. In pagan and wiccan rituals it is associated with and sacred to Beltane (Mayday). In Jewish liturgy it is one of the four sacred plants of Sukkot, the Feast of the Tabernacles. On the islands of Sardinia and Corsica it is used to produce a liqueur called Mirto. Historically it has been taken internally for urinary infections, digestive problems, bronchial congestion, and dry coughs. In India it is seen as a treatment for cerebral infections, most notably epilepsy. It has also been used at various times as an astringent, an antiseptic and a decongestant.
Precautions
There is little documented evidence to show that Myrtle is particularly dangerous, but caution should always be maintained when trying any new botanical. It is recommended that pregnant women should avoid myrtle
