| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Myrtus communis var. cineolefera |
| Pronunciation | MUR-tul (RED) |
| Common Names | Red Myrtle, Cineole Myrtle, Common Myrtle (Red Chemotype) |
| Plant Family | Myrtaceae |
| Plant Part Used | Leaves and Twigs |
| Extraction Method | Steam Distillation |
| Origin Regions | Corsica, Tunisia, Morocco, and Southern France |
Description
Red Myrtle essential oil, also known as Myrtle (Cineole Type), is a bright, crisp, and refreshing oil distilled from the leaves and branches of Myrtus communis var. cineolefera. Its aroma is distinctly clean, uplifting, and camphorous, with sweet herbal and lightly resinous undertones. Compared to the softer “Green Myrtle” variety, Red Myrtle contains a higher concentration of 1,8-cineole, giving it a stronger, more invigorating respiratory and purifying profile.
Throughout the Mediterranean, Myrtle has been cultivated for thousands of years as a symbol of clarity, vitality, and rejuvenation. Ancient herbalists valued it for its balancing effect on the body — particularly for the lungs, liver, and skin. The red chemotype, rich in cineole and α-pinene, is especially supportive of respiratory health and clear breathing, making it a preferred variant for invigorating blends and cleansing diffusions.
Red Myrtle essential oil is known for its gentle yet powerful expectorant and decongestant properties. Its mild nature allows it to deliver the benefits of Eucalyptus or Rosemary oils without overwhelming intensity, making it ideal for children, the elderly, or those with sensitive systems. The oil’s aroma also brings mental clarity and alertness, providing a clean, purifying atmosphere for concentration and comfort.
Beyond respiratory support, Red Myrtle exhibits natural astringent and antibacterial qualities that benefit the skin and scalp. When applied topically in proper dilution, it helps balance sebum production, reduce congestion, and tone the complexion. It’s equally useful in body or massage oils for lymphatic and circulatory support, offering a sense of revitalized lightness.
With its bright, herbaceous freshness and gentle therapeutic action, Myrtle (Red / Cineole) bridges respiratory clarity with emotional balance. It embodies vitality — stimulating yet calm, refreshing yet composed — a hallmark of Mediterranean aromatic heritage.
History & Background
| Era / Region | Traditional Use | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Greece | Cleansing and purification | Sacred to Aphrodite; used in cosmetics and rituals |
| Roman Empire | Digestive and aromatic herb | Infused in wines and oils for perfuming and tonics |
| North Africa & Corsica | Respiratory and tonic herb | Distilled for lung and liver health |
| Modern Aromatherapy | Respiratory & skincare support | Valued for gentle, Eucalyptus-like action |
The name Myrtus communis means “of the people,” reflecting its long history as a versatile household remedy and aromatic mainstay.
Aroma Profile
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Aroma Type | Fresh, camphorous, green, and slightly sweet-resinous |
| Scent Strength | Medium to Strong (Middle Note) |
| Blends Well With | Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Lemon, Cypress, Lavender, and Rosemary |
Red Myrtle offers a bright, clarifying character that refreshes airways and blends beautifully with other respiratory or purifying essential oils.
Chemical Composition
| Compound | Approx. % | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 1,8-Cineole (Eucalyptol) | 30–50% | Respiratory support, expectorant |
| α-Pinene | 15–25% | Circulation and airway support |
| Limonene | 5–10% | Cleansing, uplifting |
| Linalool | 1–4% | Calming, balancing |
| Myrtenyl acetate | 1–3% | Toning, restorative |
| Geranyl acetate | 0.5–2% | Skin soothing, astringent |
Red Myrtle’s higher 1,8-cineole level differentiates it from Green Myrtle, delivering stronger respiratory benefits with a brisker, more invigorating scent.
Cautions & Safety
| Type | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Internal Use | Not for internal use. |
| Topical Use | Dilute to 1–2%. Gentle and well-tolerated on skin. |
| Pregnancy / Children | Safe in proper dilution; suitable for respiratory blends for children. |
| Photosensitivity | Non-phototoxic. |
| Storage | Store in a cool, dark location to preserve cineole stability. Shelf life: ~4 years. |
Although mild, Red Myrtle’s high cineole concentration may cause mild sensitivity in extremely young children — use low dilution for diffusions.
Uses & Application Steps
Myrtle (Red / Cineole) essential oil is valued for respiratory clarity, air purification, and skin balancing.
Aromatic Use
- Diffuse 3–4 drops to open airways and support easy breathing.
- Inhale from palms for immediate focus and clarity.
- Blend with Eucalyptus and Lemon for purifying, energizing diffusion.
Topical Use
- Add 1 drop to 1 teaspoon carrier oil for chest or throat massage.
- Apply diluted oil to facial toners for oily or congested skin.
- Use in scalp serums to balance sebum and improve clarity.
Massage or Bath Use
- Combine 3–4 drops with carrier oil for lymphatic or respiratory massage.
- Add to warm bath with salts for fresh, clarifying relaxation.
- Blend with Rosemary and Cypress for circulation and energy support.
Further Reading & External Links
| Source | URL |
|---|---|
| AromaWeb — Myrtle Essential Oil Profile | https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/myrtle-essential-oil.php |
| Eden Botanicals — Myrtle Red (Cineole) | https://www.edenbotanicals.com/myrtle-red.html |
| Plant Therapy — Myrtle Red Essential Oil | https://www.planttherapy.com/products/myrtle-red-essential-oil |
| Florihana — Myrtle Red Organic | https://www.florihana.com/us/essential-oils/168-myrtle-red-organic-3700343011805.html |
| PubChem — 1,8-Cineole Compound Summary | https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/2758 |
Citations & References
- Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety (2nd ed.). Elsevier.
- PubChem Database — 1,8-Cineole (CID: 2758).
- Eden Botanicals — Myrtle Red Data Sheet.
- IFRA Standards, 2024 Update.
- AromaWeb — Myrtle Essential Oil Profile.
Conclusion
Myrtle (Red / Cineole) essential oil captures clarity and strength in perfect balance. Its clean, camphorous aroma refreshes both body and mind, promoting deep, steady breathing and renewed alertness. It’s the perfect choice for diffusions that purify air and sharpen focus without overwhelming intensity.
Physically, it offers gentle decongestant and astringent benefits, making it effective for respiratory blends, skin toners, and cleansing formulas. Its synergy of 1,8-cineole and α-pinene enhances circulation, immunity, and mental clarity — a dependable ally for everyday vitality.
Among the two main Myrtle chemotypes, Red Myrtle stands out for its brisk freshness and respiratory power. It brings a sense of open air, clear lungs, and balanced focus — nature’s clean breath distilled into aromatic form.
Disclaimer:
The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any essential oil. Conduct your own research by reviewing all citations and references listed above.