Uses and Benefits of Frankincense
Frankincense—a resin, or distilled essential oil, extracted from the Boswellia trees—boasts a legacy rich in cultural, spiritual, and medicinal significance. Revered in ancient rituals, it continues to serve as incense and perfume, with its medicinal potential finding a place in modern therapies. A key player in both Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox traditions, it also flourishes as a popular tool in aromatherapy, skin care, pain relief, and beyond.
In ancient Indian medical wisdom, frankincense was a trusted remedy for ailments of the gastrointestinal tract, such as diarrhea and vomiting. It was also used to combat arthritis, asthma, and various dermatological conditions. In the West, however, empirical research into frankincense’s myriad benefits remains in its infancy, sparking ongoing interest but leaving many questions unanswered.
Originating in the parched soils of Yemen, Oman, India, and Pakistan, frankincense is mostly harvested from East Africa and parts of the Arabian Peninsula. Sadly, the Boswellia trees that produce this precious resin are increasingly threatened, besieged by pests, grazing livestock, and the ravages of fire, with their habitats dwindling at an alarming rate. Such pressures on the trees contribute to the sometimes exorbitant cost of frankincense, adding to its mystique.
Uses and Benefits
The allure of frankincense as a therapeutic agent is undeniable. Early investigations into its potential benefits have yielded promising glimpses, though the research is far from definitive. More comprehensive studies, especially human trials, are essential before frankincense can be widely endorsed as a treatment for specific conditions.
Here’s a glimpse into some of the preliminary findings on frankincense’s potential:
May alleviate osteoarthritis (OA) symptoms: Research indicates that frankincense could outperform a placebo in improving flexibility and reducing knee pain for those suffering from OA, though the results remain inconclusive.
May help ease rheumatoid arthritis (RA) pain: One study found that a topical cream containing frankincense, along with other compounds, helped reduce joint pain and swelling. However, due to the combination of ingredients, the exact role of frankincense remains unclear.
May alleviate lower back pain: In a modest study, frankincense essential oil combined with myrrh in a massage treatment showed promising results in relieving back pain compared to a placebo.
May slow the signs of aging: Research has suggested that applying creams enriched with Boswellic acids from Boswellia serrata could rejuvenate skin texture and reduce the appearance of fine lines, offering a potential anti-aging benefit.
May ease symptoms of radiation therapy: Preliminary studies suggest that breast cancer patients undergoing radiation may find relief from erythema (radiation-induced rashes) by applying a frankincense-infused cream twice daily. Yet, the study's funding source, the cream’s manufacturer, raises questions about the impartiality of the results.
How To Use
Essential oils, including frankincense, are potent distillations, and thus, only a few drops are needed for most applications. You can diffuse it in the air, add it to your bath, or blend it with other ingredients to craft personalized skincare creams.
Generally, a few drops of frankincense in a diffuser can fill a room with its earthy fragrance, creating a soothing atmosphere conducive to relaxation, mindfulness, and clarity of thought. It’s also effective in room sprays for a similar effect.
For topical use, dilute a few drops with a carrier oil such as olive, jojoba, or coconut oil. This mixture can be applied to the skin, and some even combine frankincense with other oils to create facial serums. It can also be used in shampoos to support scalp health or added to a warm bath for a relaxing experience. Before using frankincense liberally, however, it’s important to patch-test it on a small area of skin to ensure no adverse reactions occur.
Additionally, some individuals incorporate frankincense into homemade cleaning solutions due to its antibacterial properties.
Safety and Side Effects
While generally deemed safe, frankincense may occasionally cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Though rare, rashes, itching, or dermatitis can occur. For example, one individual developed dermatitis after diffusing frankincense near their pillow, while another reported a rash after using a cream containing frankincense.
For those new to frankincense, a patch test is a wise precaution. Apply a small amount—diluted with a carrier oil—twice daily for a period of 7-10 days. Choose a location like the inside of the elbow where the product is unlikely to be washed away. If no reaction occurs after this testing period, it’s probably safe to use, though consulting a healthcare provider beforehand is always a good idea. If irritation does occur, wash the affected area with cool water, discontinue use, and apply petroleum jelly or a cool compress to alleviate discomfort. If the symptoms worsen, seek medical advice.
Ingesting frankincense can interfere with medications, including immunosuppressants and statins, and it is generally advised against those undergoing chemotherapy due to potential interactions with treatment drugs. Anyone considering frankincense alongside medication or with chronic health issues should consult a healthcare provider first.
Choosing Frankincense
When shopping for frankincense, it’s important to be discerning, as essential oils are not regulated by official bodies. Terms like “therapeutic grade” or “pure” have no official certification and should not be regarded as reliable indicators of quality.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate essential oils in the same way it does prescription medications. However, if a product makes false claims or is unsafe, the FDA can remove it from the market.
Despite emerging research suggesting frankincense's ability to reduce inflammation or relieve pain, much of this research is still in the preliminary stages, often conducted in vitro or on animal models. Until more concrete evidence emerges, claims of medical efficacy should be approached with caution.
When choosing a frankincense oil, here are a few tips:
- Examine the ingredient list to confirm the oil contains only frankincense. Ideally, the Latin name Boswellia should be included on the label.
- Opt for an amber-colored bottle to preserve the oil's integrity.
- Look for transparency regarding the oil’s origin and method of extraction.
- Smelling the oil before purchasing can ensure you're getting a fresh product.
- You may need to experiment with different brands to find one that suits your needs. An aromatherapist or naturopathic doctor can provide recommendations.
If you plan to incorporate frankincense into a broader health regimen, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to avoid potential drug interactions.
A Quick Review
Frankincense, sourced from the Boswellia tree, is prized as an essential oil and sometimes used as resin. Beyond its religious and ceremonial significance, frankincense has been used to address various health concerns, including arthritis and skin aging.
While the oil’s potential antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties have piqued the interest of researchers, most of the studies thus far have been conducted in vitro or in animals. Consequently, frankincense is not yet recommended as a primary treatment for medical conditions. If you're considering its use, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare provider to determine its suitability for your specific needs.