Opopanax

Description: Opopanax is extracted from a tall tropical tree that is closely related to myrrh and has similar properties. It has a wonderful woody and resinous scent that blends well with heavy florals or sandalwood.

Scientific Name: Commiphora erythraea

Extraction Method: steam-distilled

Opopanax Essential Oil: History, Properties, Uses, and Benefits

Opopanax essential oil, derived from the gum resin of Commiphora guidottii, is prized for its warm, sweet, and balsamic aroma. Closely related to myrrh, this material is often referred to as "sweet myrrh" and has a long history in perfumery and traditional aromatic practices (Wikipedia – Opoponax (perfumery)).

Extraction Process and Aroma

The oil and aromatic extracts are produced by steam distillation of the gum-resin collected from the tree. The resulting scent is rich, earthy, and sweet, with notes reminiscent of honey and amber, which is why opopanax is widely used as a fixative in perfumery (PubMed – β‑Bisabolene in Opoponax essential oil).

Historical Significance

Historically, opopanax gum has been traded across the Horn of Africa and the Middle East. It has been used in incense blends for ceremonial purposes and appears in historical perfume formulas and trade records.

Chemical Composition

Key constituents identified in opopanax/commiphora essential oils include various sesquiterpenes such as bisabolene isomers and furanosesquiterpenoids. These compounds contribute to its complex scent profile and fixative qualities, and have been characterized in several analytical studies (see references).

Aromatic and Traditional Uses

While not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any condition, Opopanax (sweet myrrh) products are commonly used to:

Add depth and longevity to perfumes and incense
Create grounding and meditative aromatic blends
Complement resins like frankincense and myrrh in ceremonial and aromatic applications

Varieties

Commercial “opopanax” can come from different Commiphora species (for example Commiphora guidottii or Commiphora erythraea), and the term has historically been used inconsistently across regions and trade channels. This taxonomic and commercial confusion is noted in botanical and perfumery literature.

Safety and Precautions

As with other aromatic resins and essential oils, opopanax extracts should be used with care:

Dilute appropriately before topical application and follow standard safe-use guidelines.
Avoid use during pregnancy unless advised by a qualified professional.
Perform a patch test prior to first topical use to check for sensitivity.

Conclusion

Opopanax (sweet myrrh) remains a valued aromatic material in perfumery and traditional aromatic practices for its warm, balsamic character and fixative properties. Modern analytical studies continue to clarify its composition and the range of Commiphora species sold under the name.

References

Disclaimer: The above information relates to studies of specific individual essential oil ingredients, some of which are used in the essential oil blends for various MONQ diffusers. Please note, however, that while individual ingredients may have been shown to exhibit certain independent effects when used alone, the specific blends of ingredients contained in MONQ diffusers have not been tested. No specific claims are being made that use of any MONQ diffusers will lead to any of the effects discussed above. Additionally, please note that MONQ diffusers have not been reviewed or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. MONQ diffusers are not intended to be used in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, prevention, or treatment of any disease or medical condition. If you have a health condition or concern, please consult a physician or your alternative health care provider prior to using MONQ diffusers. MONQ blends should not be inhaled into the lungs.Why? It works better that way