Myrrh (Scented Oils)

Myrrh, as an aromatic oil and not the Holy Myrrh, is a handcrafted product made by the fathers of Mount Athos, prepared according to the traditional Athonite recipe. It is derived from the resin of a specific plant, known as Commiphora myrrha, and thus constitutes a natural fragrant oil. It has been closely linked with our spiritual tradition and, within our faith, it symbolizes the grace of the Holy Spirit and is regarded as a sign of love and devotion toward Jesus Christ. Additionally, its use is associated with an act described in the Holy Gospel: the Myrrh-bearing women, together with the Theotokos, rendered honor to the Lord’s body by anointing it with myrrh.

Holy Myrrh is consecrated and used exclusively in the sacraments of the Church. Specifically, Holy Myrrh is used in the Sacrament of Chrismation, administered immediately after Baptism for the imparting of the gifts of the Holy Spirit, in the consecration of the Holy Altar in newly established churches, in the translation of holy relics and in the sanctification of sacred objects and icons. Therefore, Holy Myrrh has a strictly defined liturgical use and is not intended for everyday or personal use. In contrast, aromatic myrrh is a simple oil to which natural fragrances from plants and flowers have been added. It is not consecrated and therefore is not used in any of the Church’s sacraments. It may be used in the church as a room fragrance, as well as in the home. Its fragrance creates an atmosphere of peace, reverence, and spiritual calm. You can find the corresponding product on our website, available in two scents: myrrh and nard. Additionally, you will find authentic Athonite aromatic oil, available in twelve scents, all produced at the Holy Cell of St. George in the Holy Skete of St. Anne, as well as special car fragrances.

Myrrh can be found in various forms, depending on the purpose for which it will be used. For example, it is available in:

  1. Small bottles that one may carry with them or place near the home icon corner for blessing. Most of these have a small roll-on applicator at the top and are used for anointing the forehead or the hands.

  2. Myrrh oil intended for home use and for fragrance, offering natural beneficial properties.

  3. Aromatic sachets, which can be hung in closets and are also suitable for use in the car.

In our online shop, you can find Athonite myrrh and choose the form that best suits the purpose for which you intend to use it. We offer various products that differ in packaging, fragrance, intended use, and place of origin. Each type has its own unique character, all of them appropriate and in accordance with the tradition of our Church. All aromatic oils are suitable for the skin, as they are composed of natural ingredients that evoke a pleasant, and rich scent, filled with a sense of spiritual character.

The difference between Holy Myrrh and aromatic myrrh oil is that Holy Myrrh is consecrated and used exclusively in the sacraments of the Church, such as Chrismation. In contrast, aromatic myrrh is a simple oil to which fragrances from plants, flowers, or resins have been added. It is used mainly for its pleasant scent and can accompany personal moments of prayer. It is not consecrated and therefore cannot be used in the sacraments of the Church. The aromatic myrrh oil is offered in our store in a small roll-on bottle for easy, practical use and convenient transport.

The Athonite perfume, crafted by the monks, are available in our online store in six natural fragrances: jasmine, myrrh, musk, cypress, sandalwood, mastic and wild flower. To keep the fragrance fresh for as long as possible, proper storage is essential. This means keeping the cologne away from humidity, heat and direct sunlight, as light can alter natural aromatic compounds. It is also important to ensure that the bottle is tightly closed so that the contents do not oxidize when exposed to air. Typically, from the date of production, perfumes remain in good condition for about 1–2 years.