Frankincense Oil

Frankincense Oil Benefits

Frankincense (also known as olibanum) has been used for thousands of years. It is an aromatic resin extracted from various species of Boswellia trees, including Boswellia sacra, Boswellia frereana, Boswellia serrata, and Boswellia papyrifera, all of which are extremely rich in boswellic acids. Boswellia is commonly grown in Somalia and in various regions of Pakistan. From a fragrance standpoint, frankincense oil has a very aromatic, earthy scent with musty pine notes, citrus notes, and distinctly spicy undertones.

The smell of frankincense is also quite similar to that of rosemary; however, it has a slightly sweeter and brighter aroma. Fun fact: frankincense has long been recognized as a spiritual scent; according to the Bible, one of the three wise men gave the newborn Jesus frankincense.

Boswellia resin, which is used to make frankincense, has been prized for over 6,000 years and has been used in a variety of spiritual and medicinal applications. More recently, research has demonstrated that frankincense resin possesses potent antimicrobial and neuroprotective activity. Clinical studies, in fact, have shown the effectiveness of frankincense in the treatment of various diseases such as asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel diseases, osteoarthritis, and multiple sclerosis (MS).

Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil 

• Boosts Immune System Function
• Kills Germs And Bacteria
• Improves Memory and Learning
• Promotes Respiratory Health
• Reduces Anxiety, Stress, and Negative Emotions
  
  

Therapeutic Properties of Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense is one of the most popular essential oils in aromatherapy and offers multiple health benefits. The oil has demonstrated anti-anxiety and anti-depressant qualities, so it can be used to lift your mood and promote a sense of well-being, especially in chronically stressed patients. Frankincense is also shown to possess immune-enhancing abilities against various bacteria, viruses, and even certain cancers. Further, research tells us that a compound found in the oil can help kill cancer cells that have become resistant to chemotherapy. Moreover, frankincense oil can help bolster short-term memory and enhance learning ability, balance hormones and soothe hormone-associated symptoms (PMS, menstruation, menopause), downregulate inflammation and pain, and promote healthy digestion.

Using Essential Oils

While it is one of a select few essential oils that may be used internally, frankincense goes a long way, and it should not be ingested in large quantities as it can be toxic. You can use frankincense essential oil in a few different ways: 

Aromatically: three to four drops in a diffuser or nebulizer are sufficient.

Internally: dilute one drop in four fluid ounces of liquid or add one to two drops to a veggie cap.

Topically: dilute one to two drops with a carrier oil and apply to the skin. 

You’ll be happy to hear that frankincense essential oil is exceptionally well-tolerated and rarely causes side effects. Occasionally, it can cause symptoms such as a mild skin rash, nausea, or stomach pain, which are usually very transitory.

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