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MYRICACEAE

(Bog Myrtle family)

40 species in four genera are of cosmopolitan distribution.

[Summary yet to be added]

Myrica

35 species are almost cosmopolitan.

Myrica cerifera L.

Candleberry, Waxberry, Wax Myrtle

According to Wren (1975), the powdered bark may be added to poultices as it has a very healing and cleansing action on scrofulous ulcers [= scrofuloderma?] and sores.

This species yields bay berry wax which has been reported to be irritant and sensitising (Greenberg and Lester 1954).

References

• Greenberg, I.A. and Lester, D. (1954) Handbook of Cosmetic Materials. New York. Interscience.
• Wren RC (1975) Potter's New Cyclopaedia of Botanical Drugs and Preparations (re-edited and enlarged by Wren RW). Bradford, Devon: Health Science Press

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