Have you ever heard of frankincense oil? It is often referred to as “liquid gold”? This ancient essential oil has been valued for centuries for its remarkable health benefits and aromatic qualities. It can support various aspects of health, including immune function, skin rejuvenation, and emotional well-being. In this article, we will explore the 16 amazing health benefits of frankincense oil with its side effects. Plus, we will also discuss how to use it effectively.
What is Frankincense Oil?
Frankincense oil, also known as olibanum. This is an essential oil obtained from the resin of trees belonging to the genus Boswellia. The resin is harvested through a process called tapping, where the bark is cut to allow the sap to ooze out and harden.
This resin is then steam-distilled to produce the essential oil. Frankincense has been used historically in religious rituals, perfumes, and traditional medicine due to its aromatic properties and health benefits.
Nutritional Profile of Frankincense Oil
Below is a table summarizing its nutritional profile based on its major components:
| Component | Percentage | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Esters | 62.1% | Contributes to anti-inflammatory properties |
| Alcohols | 15.4% | Provides antimicrobial effects |
| Monoterpene Hydrocarbons | 9.9% | Offers respiratory support |
| Diterpenes | 7.1% | Enhances skin health and wound healing |
| Boswellic Acids | Varies | Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties |
| Other Terpenes | Varies | Contributes to aroma and therapeutic benefits |
16 Health Benefits of Frankincense Oil and How to Use It
1. Helps Reduce Stress and Anxiety
In today’s fast-paced world, stress and anxiety are common challenges many face. Frankincense oil acts as a soothing balm for the mind. When inhaled, it has been shown to lower heart rate and blood pressure, promoting relaxation.
A 2019 study revealed that compounds in frankincense, specifically incensole and incensole acetate, can activate ion channels in the brain. This can help alleviate feelings of anxiety and depression without the side effects.
To experience its calming effects, try diffusing frankincense oil in your home or adding a few drops to a warm bath. You can also apply diluted frankincense oil to pulse points (like wrists or neck) for quick stress relief throughout the day.
For an even deeper relaxation experience, you can consider combining frankincense with other calming oils like lavender or chamomile in your diffuser.
2. Boosts Immune System Function
Staying healthy is a priority for many of us, especially during cold and flu season. Frankincense oil can be a powerful ally in supporting your immune system.
Research shows that it can help destroy harmful bacteria and viruses while enhancing immune responses. A study from Mansoura University found that frankincense exhibits strong immunostimulant activity. This makes it effective in preventing infections.
You can add frankincense oil to your daily wellness routine. Just mix a few drops into a carrier oil and apply it to your chest or back. You can also add it to your diffuser during the winter months to purify the air and promote respiratory health.
Additionally, you might try incorporating frankincense into homemade wellness capsules with other immune-boosting oils like oregano or tea tree.
3. Promotes Healthy Skin
If you’re on a quest for glowing skin, frankincense oil might be your new best friend. Known for its ability to strengthen skin and improve tone and elasticity, this oil can help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
A review indicates that frankincense oil reduces redness and skin irritation while producing a more even skin tone. Its anti-inflammatory properties soothe irritation and redness. This makes it beneficial for conditions like acne or rosacea.
To incorporate frankincense into your skincare routine, mix a few drops with a carrier oil (like jojoba or coconut) and apply it as a facial serum. You can also add it to your moisturizer for an extra boost of hydration.
For those with oily or acne-prone skin, you can use frankincense in combination with tea tree oil for added antibacterial benefits.
4. Enhances Mood
We all have days when we feel a bit down or out of sorts. The uplifting aroma of frankincense oil can help lift your spirits and improve your emotional well-being. Its scent has been linked to positive feelings and can even help combat sadness.
Try using frankincense in an essential oil diffuser during your daily activities or while meditating. You might also consider creating an uplifting room spray. Mix water with a few drops of frankincense oil in a spray bottle. This is perfect for refreshing your space!
If you’re feeling particularly low, consider blending it with citrus oils like orange or lemon for an extra mood boost.
5. Supports Respiratory Health
If you’ve ever struggled with breathing issues during cold or allergy season, frankincense oil could be beneficial for you. Its expectorant properties help clear nasal passages and ease breathing difficulties associated with colds or allergies.
For respiratory support, you can add several drops of frankincense oil to hot water for steam inhalation or use it in a diffuser while you sleep at night.
This not only helps clear congestion but also creates a soothing atmosphere conducive to restful sleep. For additional benefits, you can consider combining frankincense with eucalyptus oil.
6. Aids Wound Healing
Accidents happen! When they do, frankincense oil can lend a helping hand in healing minor cuts and scrapes. Its powerful antiseptic properties keep wounds clean while promoting faster healing.
To use frankincense for wound care, dilute it with carrier oil (like coconut or olive oil) before applying it directly to the affected area. This can help reduce inflammation and minimize scarring over time.
For deeper wounds or more severe injuries, always consult a healthcare professional before applying any essential oils.
7. Fights Inflammation
Chronic pain from inflammation can be debilitating, but frankincense oil may provide some relief. Its anti-inflammatory properties inhibit the production of inflammatory molecules associated with various conditions like arthritis.
In a new study, applying frankincense topically has shown promise in reducing swelling and pain. This makes it an excellent natural treatment option for pain-related conditions affecting muscles and joints.
For localized relief, you can mix frankincense oil with carrier oil and massage it into sore muscles or joints. Regular application may help reduce discomfort over time—perfect after an intense workout!
Plus, You might also consider adding frankincense-infused oils into your massage routine for added relaxation benefits.
8. Improves Oral Health
Taking care of our teeth and gums is essential for overall health, and frankincense oil can play a role here too! Its antibacterial properties make it effective against oral health issues like gingivitis and bad breath.
Create a natural mouth rinse by diluting a few drops of frankincense oil in water. Swish it around in your mouth for fresh breath and improved gum health—just be sure not to swallow it!
Additionally, you can use frankincense-infused toothpaste or mouthwash available on the market for added convenience.
9. Enhances Meditation Practices
For those who meditate or practice yoga, frankincense is often considered sacred due to its grounding aroma. It helps create an atmosphere conducive to mindfulness and spiritual exploration.
Incorporate frankincense into your meditation routine. Just diffusing it while you practice or applying diluted oil on your wrists before starting your session. Many find that this enhances their focus and deepens their experience. You can also pair it with deep breathing exercises for maximum effect!
10. Promotes Hair Health
Frankincense isn’t just great for skin; it’s also beneficial for hair! If you’re struggling with dry scalp or dandruff, adding a few drops of frankincense oil to your shampoo or conditioner can nourish your scalp while promoting healthy hair growth.
Mix several drops of frankincense with your regular shampoo or conditioner before washing your hair. You can also create a scalp treatment by diluting it with a carrier oil like coconut oil before massaging it into your scalp.
11. Acts as a Natural Astringent
If you’re looking for tighter pores and firmer skin, frankincense oil’s natural astringent properties may help! Regular use can improve skin tone while tightening sagging areas.
Create an easy homemade toner by mixing distilled water with several drops of diluted frankincense oil in a spray bottle. Apply this toner after cleansing your face for refreshed skin throughout the day. This is perfect as part of both morning and evening skincare routines!
12. Supports Digestive Health
Digestive discomfort is something many people experience from time to time, but frankincense oil may provide some relief! When applied topically on the abdomen (diluted with carrier oil), it can soothe bloating or gas while supporting overall digestive health.
Gently massage diluted frankincense oil onto your abdomen after meals if you’re feeling bloated or uncomfortable—it may help ease discomfort naturally!
Additionally, you can consider incorporating digestive-friendly oils like ginger or peppermint alongside frankincense for enhanced digestive support.
13. Improves Sleep Quality
Struggling with sleep? Frankincense oil might be the perfect addition to your nighttime routine! Its calming aroma creates a peaceful environment that promotes relaxation and helps prepare the body for restful sleep. This is ideal for those restless nights.
Just Diffuse frankincense in your bedroom before bedtime or apply diluted oil on the soles of your feet as part of your pre-sleep ritual. This simple practice could lead you toward more restful nights!
For added effectiveness, you can consider combining it with lavender essential oil known for its sleep-promoting properties.
14. Reduces Scars and Stretch Marks
If you’re looking to minimize the appearance of scars or stretch marks, consider using diluted frankincense oil regularly on those areas. Its regenerative properties may help reduce their visibility over time. This makes it a popular choice among those wanting smoother skin.
Mix several drops of frankincense with a carrier oil (like sweet almond or jojoba) and apply daily on scars or stretch marks—consistency is key for best results!
15. Helps Balance Hormones
Hormonal fluctuations can be challenging, especially during menstruation or menopause. Some studies suggest that frankincense oil may assist in balancing hormones naturally while alleviating discomfort associated with these changes.
To support hormonal balance, consider using diluted frankincense on pulse points during menstrual cycles or menopause symptoms—this may provide some relief from discomfort!
16. Acts as an Antioxidant
Frankincense oil contains compounds that serve as antioxidants. These are substances that protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. Incorporating this powerful oil into your routine may contribute to better overall health.
You can enjoy its antioxidant benefits by diffusing frankincense throughout your home or incorporating it into skincare products. Both methods allow you to reap its protective qualities!
Potential Side Effects and Risks
While generally considered safe when used appropriately, there are potential side effects associated with frankincense oil:
- Skin Irritation: Some people may experience irritation when applying undiluted essential oils directly onto their skin.
- Allergic Reactions: People who are allergic may develop hives or difficulty breathing upon exposure.
- Pregnancy Concerns: It is generally recommended that pregnant women avoid using frankincense oil due to its potential emmenagogue effects (which could stimulate menstrual flow). Always consult with a healthcare provider before using any essential oils during pregnancy.
- Interactions with Medications: Frankincense may interact negatively with certain medications such as blood thinners (e.g., warfarin) or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
It’s always best practice to conduct a patch test before full application on the skin and consult healthcare professionals if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
How to Choose Frankincense Oil?
With various types of frankincense oil available on the market, it can be challenging to determine which one is right for you. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing frankincense oil:
1. Type of Frankincense
- Frankincense Carterii: Known for its sweet, woody aroma, this type is often used in perfumery and incense.
- Frankincense Serrata: More affordable and commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine; it has a slightly sharper scent.
- Frankincense Frereana: This variety is prized for its rich aroma and therapeutic properties but can be more expensive.
- Sacred Frankincense (Boswellia sacra): Known for its purity and higher alpha-pinene content, making it more potent.
2. Purity
Look for oils that are labeled as 100% pure essential oil without additives or synthetic ingredients. You can check for third-party testing or GC/MS reports that confirm the oil’s purity.
3. Extraction Method
Most quality frankincense oils are steam distilled, which preserves the beneficial properties of the resin. CO2 extraction is another method that can yield high-quality oils with a broader range of constituents.
4. Source
Consider where the frankincense is sourced from. Oils from regions like Somalia or Oman are often considered high-quality due to traditional harvesting methods.
5. Brand Reputation
Choose reputable brands known for their quality control and transparency about sourcing and production practices.
FAQs
1. Can I ingest frankincense oil?
Ingesting essential oils should be approached with caution. While some practitioners use frankincense oil internally, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional before doing so. Not all essential oils are safe for ingestion, and quality matters significantly.
2. How should I store frankincense oil?
To maintain its potency and extend shelf life, store frankincense oil in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight. Keep it tightly sealed in its original bottle or an amber glass bottle to protect it from light exposure.
3. How long does the scent of frankincense last when diffused?
The duration of the scent can vary based on factors such as the type of diffuser used, the amount of oil added, and room size.
Typically, you can expect the aroma to last several hours when diffused continuously; however, many people find that intermittent diffusion allows them to enjoy the scent throughout the day.
4. Can frankincense oil be used for children?
Frankincense oil can be used for children, but it should always be diluted appropriately and used with caution. For children under the age of two, it is generally advised to avoid using essential oils unless directed by a healthcare professional.
For older children, dilute frankincense oil in a carrier oil at a higher ratio (e.g., 1 drop of essential oil to 1 tablespoon of carrier oil) and consult with a pediatrician before use.
5. How does frankincense oil compare to other essential oils?
Frankincense oil is unique due to its complex chemical composition and historical significance. While many essential oils offer specific benefits, frankincense stands out for its broad range of uses, including stress relief, skin health, and immune support.
It is often considered a “base note” in aromatherapy blends, providing depth and grounding qualities.
6. How often can I use frankincense oil?
The frequency of use depends on your individual needs and preferences. For general wellness support, diffusing frankincense oil several times a day or applying diluted oil to the skin once or twice daily is common. However, if you experience any irritation or adverse effects, reduce usage or consult a healthcare professional.
7. Where can I buy high-quality frankincense oil?
High-quality frankincense oil can be purchased from health food stores, specialty essential oils retailers, or reputable online suppliers. Look for brands that provide transparency about their sourcing practices and offer third-party testing results to ensure purity and quality.
