Quick Summary

Myrtus communis (myrtle) is a Mediterranean plant whose essential oils and extracts have been studied for various potential therapeutic effects including antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and possible benefits in gastrointestinal and skin-related conditions. Clinical studies have examined its efficacy as part of herbal formulations in conditions such as non-cardiac chest pain related to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and bacterial vaginosis. Preclinical studies suggest anticancer, protective oxidative stress, and antimicrobial activities. While evidence includes clinical trials, it remains limited and further research is needed before conclusive recommendations can be made.

What Is It

Myrtus communis, commonly known as myrtle, is a woody evergreen shrub native to the Mediterranean region. It produces aromatic leaves and berries and has a long history of use in traditional medicine and perfumery. The plant’s essential oils and leaf extracts are often the focus of scientific studies evaluating its biological activities.

Traditional Uses

Myrtle has been traditionally used to support respiratory health, treat gastrointestinal complaints, and as a topical agent for skin infections and inflammation. It has also been employed in rituals and cosmetics due to its aromatic properties.

Active Compounds

Myrtle contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including essential oils rich in monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids. Notable constituents in the essential oil include myrtenol, limonene, and cineole, which may contribute to its antimicrobial and antioxidant effects.

Potential Benefits with Evidence Levels

  • Treatment of non-cardiac chest pain related to GERD (Human clinical evidence): A double-blind randomized controlled trial reported that an herbal capsule containing Myrtus communis may provide longer-lasting relief of chest pain related to GERD compared to omeprazole. (PMID: 40969410)
  • Treatment of bacterial vaginosis (Human clinical evidence): A systematic review of randomized clinical trials suggests that combinations including Myrtus communis extracts with metronidazole can improve treatment outcomes for bacterial vaginosis. Some herbal formulations containing myrtle had effects comparable to metronidazole. (PMID: 39759925)
  • Skin antimicrobial and possible dermal applications (Preclinical and limited clinical evidence): Myrtle essential oil demonstrated broad antimicrobial activity in vitro and showed good skin compatibility in patch tests, supporting its potential use in topical dermatological and cosmetic products. (PMID: 41976265)
  • Protective effects against oxidative damage (Animal study): An aqueous extract of myrtle leaves protected rat plasma and hemoglobin against oxidative alterations induced by X-ray exposure in animal experiments. (PMID: 41148603)
  • Potential anticancer activity (Preclinical evidence): In vitro and computational studies of myrtle essential oil components suggested multi-target anticancer effects, particularly against hormone-dependent cancer cells, possibly through androgen receptor antagonism. (PMID: 41155656)

Side Effects

Current clinical studies have not reported significant adverse effects related to Myrtus communis preparations. Essential oils demonstrate good skin compatibility at low concentrations. However, some essential oil components may pose risks if used improperly. Comprehensive human safety, toxicity, and pharmacokinetics data are limited.

Drug Interactions

There is no direct clinical evidence of drug interactions involving Myrtus communis. Given its bioactive compounds, caution is advised when using it alongside pharmaceutical treatments until further studies clarify potential interactions.

Who Should Avoid It

No specific contraindications have been established based on current clinical evidence. However, due to limited information, individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before using myrtle products. Those with allergies to plants in the Myrtaceae family should exercise caution.

Evidence Limitations

  • Limited number of high-quality, large-scale randomized controlled trials.
  • Heterogeneity of preparations (extracts, essential oils, and combinations with other herbs) complicates interpretation of results.
  • Predominance of preclinical and animal studies for several purported benefits.
  • Lack of long-term safety and efficacy data.
  • Insufficient data on pharmacokinetics, optimal dosages, and drug interactions.
  • Limited information on use in special populations such as pregnant or breastfeeding women.

References

  • Sepehrikia S et al. Comparison the effect of Asvard capsule and omeprazole in treatment and recurrence of non-cardiac chest pain related to gastroesophageal reflux disease in adults: A controlled double blind clinical trial. 2025. PMID: 40969410
  • Kamali M et al. Evaluation of the Efficacy of Medicinal Plants in Treating Bacterial Vaginosis: A Comprehensive Systematic Review of Interventional Studies. 2024. PMID: 39759925
  • Dănilă E et al. Chemical Characterization, Evaluation of Antimicrobial Potential, and Cytotoxic Activity of Thuja occidentalis L. and Myrtus communis L. Essential Oils for Topical Applications. 2026. PMID: 41976265
  • Ansari H et al. Protective Effects of Aqueous Extract of Myrtus communis L. Leaves against Oxidative Susceptibility of Rat Plasma and Hemoglobin during Exposure to X-ray Radiation. 2025. PMID: 41148603
  • Bayoudh A et al. Integrated Network Pharmacology and Molecular Dynamics Reveal Multi-Target Anticancer Mechanisms of Myrtus communis Essential Oils. 2025. PMID: 41155656

Last Reviewed

June 2024

Informational Disclaimer: This page provides a summary of current scientific knowledge regarding Myrtus communis and is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any new herbal treatment, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications.