For centuries, frankincense has held a revered position in cultures around the world. Used in religious ceremonies, medicinal practices, and even as a form of currency, this fragrant resin has a rich history steeped in mystery and allure. But beyond its historical significance, frankincense essential oil, extracted from the Boswellia tree, offers a treasure trove of benefits for both mind and body and is one of my personal favourites.
A Journey Through Time: The Reign of Frankincense
Native to the dry, arid regions of North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, the Boswellia tree has been a source of frankincense for millennia. Egyptians used it in embalming rituals, while ancient Greeks and Romans valued it for its medicinal properties. Frankincense even finds mention in the Bible, highlighting its cultural and spiritual significance throughout history.
The most common method involves steaming the Boswellia tree resin, which ruptures the oil sacs and releases the essential oil. This method produces a high-quality oil with the characteristic woody, balsamic aroma. Try to avoid Frankincense that is made with solvent extraction as this method can sometimes yield an oil with a less potent aroma and therapeutic effect.
A Remarkable Resin: The Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense essential oil is more than just a beautiful fragrance. Its chemical composition, rich in monoterpenes and boswellic acids, offers a range of potential benefits:
Promotes Relaxation and Reduces Stress: The calming aroma of frankincense oil is known to ease anxiety and promote feelings of peace and well-being. Diffuse it or inhale directly for an instant mood boost.
Soothes Skin Irritations: Frankincense oil's astringent properties may help reduce the appearance of wrinkles and scars, while its anti-inflammatory effects can soothe irritation and promote healing. However, always dilute frankincense essential oil before topical application.
Supports Respiratory Health: Frankincense oil's expectorant properties may help clear congestion and ease coughs. Diffusing it or inhaling directly can be particularly beneficial during cold and flu season.
Pain Relief Potential: Studies suggest that frankincense oil's anti-inflammatory properties may offer relief from pain associated with arthritis and other inflammatory conditions
Additional Tips from your Friendly Aromatherapist
Quality Matters: Look for high-quality, therapeutic-grade mandarin oil for optimal benefits.....
I use naturallythinking.com who source their frankincense essential oil from the Oilibanum trees in Somalia and guarantee therapeutic grade oils (and it's steam distilled rather than solvent extracted)
Frankincense blends well with most woods and floral's and is a very versatile oil in blends. In my opinion, it's addition always creates a spiritual dynamic to an aromatherapy massage. An aroma that evokes the feeling "it will be ok tomorrow"
Embrace the Legacy: Frankincense – More Than Just an Oil
Frankincense essential oil is a powerful gift from nature, offering a multitude of benefits for mind, body, and spirit. From its ancient history to its diverse therapeutic properties, frankincense continues to captivate and inspire. So, why not incorporate this "king of essential oils" into your wellness routine and experience its magic for yourself?
!!! Important Safety Considerations !!!
Frankincense oil is generally safe for most people, it's important to remember that it's a concentrated essential oil. Here are some key safety points:
Never apply undiluted essential oil directly to your skin. It can cause irritation. Always dilute it with a carrier oil like jojoba or almond oil before topical application.
Consult a healthcare professional before using frankincense oil if you are pregnant, or breastfeeding