What is Frankincense Essential oil?
Frankincense is a well-known essential oil. It is steam distilled from the resin of the Frankincense tree. It is a powerful antiaging oil and promotes cellular function. It has many practical uses. Its scent is spicey and woodsy with a hint of honey.
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What is Frankincense’s History?
Frankincense has been used for over 5000 years by many cultures, such as the Egyptians in both its raw form and its distilled form (essential oil). It was used in religious ceremonies, in perfumes, incense and healing balms. Frankincense is known as the “king of oils” mostly due to its relationship with the newborn baby, Jesus. The three wise men, as the story goes, delivered three gifts to the newborn, Frankincense, Myrrh, and gold, on the day of his birth.
Where is Frankincense grown and harvested?
The Frankincense Boswellia tree is grown in harsh climates in a rocky terrain. It is mostly found in North Africa and India. To harvest Frankincense, a cut or notch is made in the trunk of the tree. The tree then heals itself with a sticky residue or sap that slowly leaks out of the tree. The sap turns into a chunk of resin. The fragrant resin is then harvested by hand. It takes one half of pound of resin to make one 15 milliliter bottle of Frankincense.
What does Frankincense cost so much?
For a Frankincense tree to be healthy it is suggested to not be cut more than 12 times a year. The Frankincense tree is being over harvested. It is not being properly manages for a sustainable resource. It’s basically a hard to harvest resource that is being over sourced. Which means it’s going to cost more as it becomes harder to get. That’s why it’s always good to use a company that ethically sources its supplies.
What is Frankincense used for?
Used topically it is a powerful antiaging oil, reducing the appearance of wrinkles. It promotes cellular function. Frankincense may help minimize skin imperfections and even out skin tone. It may help alleviate anxiety and depression. It may kill bacteria and may be helpful in treating infection. It may reduce inflammation. It helps with migraines. Frankincense is also helpful in destroying both airborne and surface germs. It may help with muscle spasms or cramps. It may assist with respiratory issues such as congestion, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
Is Frankincense safe to use?
Frankincense is safe for all ages for inhalation and topical use. It is safe for pregnant and breastfeeding mothers. It is safe for dogs, but not cats. There is no maximum topical dilution rate, but it is suggested to always dilute to avoid sensitivities. Besides dilution allows your oils to last longer, especially since Frankincense is so expensive. Avoid using old or oxidized Frankincense because it can cause skin sensitization.
Quick Facts
Common Name: Frankincense – also known as Olibanum
Botanical Name: Boswellia frereana, Boswellia papyrifera, Boswellia carteri, Boswellia serrata
Extraction Method: Steam Distillation
Plant Source: Resin
Key Constituents: x-pinene, Limonene (varies depending on species)
Maximum dilution: None, but dilution is still recommended
Scent: Spicy, woody with a hint of honey
Shelf Life: 2 years
Blends Well With: Citrus oils, cedarwood, patchouli, lavender, firs, ylang ylang and sandalwood
Keep Reading: Ultimate Guide to Choosing Quality Essential Oils
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Keep Reading: Ten Fabulous Reasons to Love Essential Oils
This information is for educational and informational purposes. It is not intended to treat, cure, diagnose or prevent any medical condition. Please consult your health professional if you are taking any medications or have any health issues.
How do you use Frankincense essential oil? Let me know in the comments!
Download a free Lavender Essential Oil Reference Guide by clicking HERE.
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Resources:
Lea Jacobson – Using Essential Oils Safely
One of my favorite resources is Lea Jacobson form Using Essential Oils Safely. She has a ton of free resources such has 30 days of Free Essential Oil Safety Files and a Learning Center with tons of information. You can get free recipes, what to do in an essential oil emergency, information about EO’s during pregnancy and so much more! Simply click HERE to find out more!
MidWestModernMomma.com 20 Frankincense Essential Oil Uses
Sources:
Tisserand, R and Young, (2014) Essential Oil Safety, 2ed. Churchill Livingstone
Purchon, N and Cantele (2014) The Complete Aromatherapy and Essential Oils Handbook for Everyday Wellness. Robert Rose, Inc.
