Myrtle

Myrtle is an aromatic, evergreen shrub with pointed glossy leaves, and sweet scented flowers which are white with a hint of pink. It is native to the Mediteranean, Asia and India, but it is also cultivated. In Greek mythology and ritual, myrtle is sacred to the goddesses Aphrodite and Demeter, and similarly, in Rome, myrtle was considered dear to the goddess Venus. Myrtle was said to symbolise love, and wreathes made of myrtle leaves were worn by Greeks at weddings and banquets. Even today, myrtle is commonly used in bouquets at weddings and on special occasions, such a Valentine’s Day, to symbolize love, beauty and loyalty. Throughout Europe and across the Middle East, the folklore associated with myrtle suggests a common symbolism of romance, devotion, beauty and love. myrtle wreaths were also awarded to athletes, and for military victories, and they were also worn as crowns as a sign of royal status.

In traditional medicine, myrtle has been used to treat several conditions and ailments. A compress of warmed myrtle sprigs was used to ease bruises, strains and sprains. Internally, a myrtle infusion was reputed to relieve colds, chest infections, sinusitis and urinary-tract infections, however, there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

In cooking, myrtle leaves are used in a similar fashion to bay leaves, adding a spicy citrus flavour to dishes while cooking, but discarded before serving the food.

There are several references to myrtle in the Old Testament of The Bible, of which the following is one example:

“Instead of the thorn bush the cypress will come up, And instead of the nettle the myrtle will come up, And it will be a memorial to the LORD, For an everlasting sign which will not be cut off.”

(Isaiah 55:13)