OMUMBIRI ESSENTIAL OIL

Commiphora wildii

Omumbiri is a type of Myrrh native to some of the most arid deserts of Namibia. Growing close to the ground, it spreads its thorny crown over the sun-baked rocks. Few plants can survive in this harsh environment. During the hottest part of the year, the bark breaks, oozing resin from the cracks. Under the burning sun, it does not take long for the resin to dry. The colour, which ranges from dark amber to white, gives a good indication of its age. The lightest tones reveal the freshest resin. Nomadic women harvest it from the wild by scraping it off the bark.

Traditional
The Himba women have used Omumbiri as a perfume for hundreds of years. They powder it and mix it with animal fat and ochre to make a protective, fragrant paste or combine it with other aromatic plants as a dry perfume. Omumbiri’s anti-inflammatory and toning properties make it a beneficial ingredient for skin-care products.

Magical
Omumbiri is associated with fertility and protection. It calms the heart and guards against evil spells and curses. Its aromatic fragrance creates a peaceful ambience and helps the scattered mind to focus on essentials.

Scent
Omumbiri essential oil has a warm, balsamic, earthy scent, somewhat sweet but with lively top notes. Its fragrance is more reminiscent of Frankincense than other types of Myrrh. Since there is no grading system for the resin, each batch is unique depending on the resin used to distil the oil. Omumbiri essential oil blends well with Patchouli, Calamus, Frankincense, Petitgrain, Oppoponax, Sweet Myrrh, Labdanum, Tonka, and Benzoin.

Synonyms
Namibian myrrh

Country of origin
Namibia