Anyone wandering through the scrubland of Mallorca will recognize it by its unmistakable, balsamic scent. Myrtle (Myrtus communis) is not a loud plant; it is an elegant specimen with shiny, evergreen leaves and delicate, white star-shaped flowers.
At Fartàritx, we value myrtle as one of the most versatile companions. Like no other plant, it connects the emotional level (love & protection) with physical health (breathing & skin).
A powerhouse for breathing
In traditional folk medicine, myrtle is primarily known as a "liberator." Its leaves are rich in cineol and alpha-pinene.
- Take a deep breath: these essential oils have powerful expectorant properties. When your chest feels tight or you have a stubborn cold, the scent of myrtle is like taking a walk in the clear mountain air of the Tramuntana mountains. It opens up the bronchial tubes and makes breathing easier.
- Natural protective shield: Thanks to its antimicrobial properties, it is often used to support the immune system during the cold season and ward off pathogens before they can take hold.
The plant of skin and tranquility
Not only the lungs, but also the skin loves myrtle. Its ingredients (such as myrtol) have anti-inflammatory and astringent properties.
- Cleansing: It clarifies the complexion and helps to refine pores.
- Anti-inflammatory: It has a soothing effect on irritated skin or mild inflammation.
- Antioxidant power: It protects cells from oxidative stress ("rust") and is therefore considered a rejuvenating agent in natural cosmetics.
- A symbol of love throughout the millennia
Hardly any other plant is as culturally significant as the myrtle.
- Antiquity: For the Romans and Greeks, she was dedicated to the goddess of love (Venus/Aphrodite). She stood for beauty and sensuality.
- Tradition: To this day, myrtle (the "bridal wreath") is a symbol of happiness and fertility at weddings. It is said to seal eternal love.
- Spirituality: In Christianity, its meaning shifted toward purity; it was associated with the Virgin Mary. It was believed to be a protective plant that wards off evil and brings blessings to the home.
The myrtle tree at Fartàritx
Myrtle grows wild and untreated on our island. The intense sunshine in Mallorca ensures that the concentration of active ingredients in the leaves is particularly high. When we distill or extract them, we capture precisely this duality: the gentleness of the white flower and the powerful, clarifying effect of the leaf.
