Frankincense Oil is extracted from the gum or resin from Frankincense or Olibanum trees, which’s scientific name is Boswellia Carteri. Frankincense has been a popular ingredient in cosmetics and incense burners for centuries. It has even been found in the remains of ancient Egyptian and Anglo-Saxon civilizations. Furthermore, it is closely associated with religious traditions and rites, particularly in the Christian tradition.

This pale yellow oil has many common names as well, and you may see it labeled as “Olibanum” or “Boswellia oil” from time to time. The oil feels smooth to the touch, and evaporates slowly.

Frankincense tears are widely recognized as incense. The oil is known topically as an antioxidant and astringent in skin care preparations, and for its anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties. Frankincense is also utilized as a unique fixative in the fragrance and perfumery world, because of its light aroma usually associated with top notes.

Frankincense grows as a short shrub, about 3-7 meters (10-23 feet) with an abundance of leaves and blossoms with white or pale pink flowers. It is botanically related to the tree that the essential oil myrrh is taken from. Frankincense is one of the oils that can really calm and soothe the whole body and mind. Frankincense oil can be used in blended massage oil or diluted in the bath for colds, coughs, bronchitis, rheumatism, chilliness, poor circulation, exhaustion, nightmares, heavy periods, respiratory problems and mucus congestion.

Although further scientific support for the health effects of frankincense essential oil is needed, several other types of essential oils have been found to offer certain health benefits. For example, lavender essential oil may help alleviate anxiety and relieve insomnia, while rose essential oil may ease menstrual cramps and reduce stress. When combined with a carrier oil (such as jojoba, sweet almond, or avocado), frankincense essential oil can be applied directly to the skin or added to baths.

Frankincense essential oil also can be inhaled after sprinkling a few drops of the oil onto a cloth or tissue, or by using an aromatherapy diffuser or vaporizer.

Benefit & Uses: Frankincense Oil is effective as an antiseptic, and even the fumes or smoke obtained from burning it have antiseptic and disinfectant qualities that eliminate the germs in the space where the smoke filters out. It can be applied on wounds without any known side effects to protect them from tetanus and becoming septic. It is equally good on internal wounds and protects them from developing infections.

The therapeutic properties of Frankincense essential oil include use as an antiseptic, astringent, carminative, digestive, diuretic, sedative, tonic and expectorant. Frankincense is said to help rejuvenate the aging skin, and is effective with bacterial and fungal infections. The anti-inflammatory property of this oil is reputed to be an effective treatment for joint pain and arthritis. Frankincense can also be used as an insect repellent and is also widely used in cosmetics and soap manufacturing. It has a grounding aroma, and often used in meditation.

It soothes coughs and eliminates phlegm deposited in the respiratory tracts and the lungs. Frankincense essential oil also provides relief from bronchitis and congestion of nasal tract, larynx, pharynx, bronchi, and lungs. Its antidepressant and anti-inflammatory properties also help relax the breathing passages, which can reduce the dangers of asthma attacks, and its antiseptic qualities are what give it the reputation of being an immune system booster. It also eases body pain, headaches, and toothaches, balances the rise in body temperature commonly associated with colds.

Frankincense Oil is very effective as a sedative, because it induces a feeling of mental peace, relaxation, satisfaction and spirituality. It also awakens insight, makes you more introspective and lowers anxiety, anger and stress. When feeling anxious or if anticipate some sort of stressful episode, add some frankincense oil to a diffuser or a vaporizer. Frankincense essential oil promotes deep breathing and relaxation, which can open your breathing passages and reduce blood pressure, moving mental state back to calmness.