Myrtus communis
Myrtle
Myrtle is a small aromatic evergreen shrub native to North Africa and the Mediterranean region. It has a long history of use dating to ancient Greece and is associated with marriage fidelity, love and protection. It is reported to be a sacred plant of Aphrodite, the Greek goddess of love. The leaves and berries are used in Mediterranean and North African food as a spice. It is in the same plant family as Tea Tree and Eucalyptus, and it was used in traditional medicine to support respiratory health and promote healthy veins and circulation of the lower GI tract.*