Myrrhic acid is a natural compound identified as a minor component of myrrh resin, which is derived from several trees of the Commiphora genus. Also known by its IUPAC name as (2R,3E)-2,4,6,8‑tetramethyldeca‑3,7‑dienoic acid, myrrhic acid possesses a complex structure containing a carboxylic acid and multiple methyl groups.
With a molecular formula of C15H24O2, myrrhic acid has a molecular weight of approximately 236.35 grams per mole. It is a pale yellow, viscous liquid that is insoluble in water but soluble in organic solvents like ethanol or ether.
Myrrhic acid, along with other chemical constituents of myrrh resin, contributes to its distinctive fragrance and therapeutic properties. Myrrh has been widely used for centuries in traditional medicine as an antiseptic, expectorant, and anti-inflammatory agent.
In modern times, myrrhic acid has attracted attention from researchers due to its potential pharmaceutical applications. Studies have suggested that myrrhic acid possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and antioxidant properties. These properties make it a subject of interest for the development of new drugs, especially in the fields of oncology and infectious diseases.
While myrrhic acid is a relatively minor component of myrrh resin, its unique chemical structure makes it an object of scientific exploration, with ongoing efforts to unravel its full therapeutic potential.
