Frankincense essential oil, extracted from the resin of Boswellia trees, has been valued for thousands of years for its therapeutic, medicinal, and spiritual properties. Used across various cultures, from ancient Egypt to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, this oil remains a key ingredient in modern wellness practices.
Beyond its anti-inflammatory and aromatherapeutic benefits, frankincense has fascinating historical connections, intriguing folklore, and practical everyday applications. This blog will explore its history, scientifically backed benefits, and how to incorporate it into your daily routine.
Frankincense in Ancient Civilizations: Myths and History
- Gift of the Three Wise Men: In the Bible, frankincense was one of the gifts brought to baby Jesus by the Three Wise Men, symbolizing divinity and healing.
- Egyptian Beauty Rituals: Egyptian women used frankincense in their skincare and cosmetics, believing it promoted youthful skin. It was also burned in temples to purify the air.
- Greek and Roman Medicine: Hippocrates, the father of modern medicine, prescribed frankincense for digestion issues and wound healing, while Roman soldiers used it for muscle recovery after battle.
- The Lost Land of Punt: Frankincense was so valuable in ancient times that the Egyptians referred to the Land of Punt, believed to be in present-day Somalia, as the “Land of Gods” due to its high-quality resin trade.
Frankincense in Traditional Medicine: China & India
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
In TCM, frankincense (Rǔ Xiāng) is often combined with myrrh to:
- Improve blood circulation
- Reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Alleviate joint pain and arthritis.
- Treat wounds, ulcers, and skin infections.
Frankincense is commonly used in herbal formulations for pain relief and is believed to have a grounding effect on the mind.
Ayurvedic Medicine (India)
In Ayurveda, frankincense (Salai Guggal) is traditionally used to:
- Support joint health and flexibility
- Reduce inflammatory conditions like arthritis
- Strengthen the immune system
- Enhance meditation and spiritual awareness
Ayurvedic practitioners often prescribe Boswellia supplements derived from frankincense to help manage chronic inflammatory diseases.
Scientifically Backed Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil
- Anti-Inflammatory Properties
- Studies show that boswellic acids found in frankincense can reduce inflammation, making it useful for arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel diseases. (Source: Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2012)
- Potential Anti-Cancer Effects
- Research suggests frankincense may trigger apoptosis (cell death) in cancer cells, particularly in breast, colon, and prostate cancers. (Source: Cancer Research Journal, 2020)
- Improves Respiratory Health
- Used for centuries to relieve coughs and congestion, frankincense is now studied for its role in asthma management. (Source: Journal of Pulmonary Pharmacology, 2018)
- Enhances Mental Clarity & Reduces Stress
- Studies indicate aromatherapy with frankincense can reduce cortisol (stress hormone) levels and promote relaxation. (Source: International Journal of Neuroscience, 2019)
- Supports Wound Healing & Skin Health
- Frankincense contains compounds that promote cell regeneration and may reduce the appearance of scars, wrinkles, and stretch marks. (Source: Dermatology Research Journal, 2021)
How to Use Frankincense Essential Oil at Home
Frankincense essential oil is versatile and can be used in multiple ways. Here are some practical applications:
For Relaxation & Stress Relief:
✔ Add 5-7 drops to a diffuser to create a calming atmosphere
✔ Mix with a carrier oil and massage onto your temples or wrists for relaxation
✔ Combine with lavender or chamomile essential oil for more profound stress relief
For Skin & Anti-Aging:
✔ Mix 2 drops with a moisturizer or facial oil to help reduce wrinkles and scars
✔ Add to a clay mask for a deep skin detox
✔ Use in a homemade body butter for stretch marks and dry skin
For Respiratory Support:
✔ Add 3 drops to a bowl of steaming water and inhale deeply to clear congestion
✔ Apply a diluted mixture to the chest for asthma or bronchial issues
For Pain & Inflammation:
✔ Mix with coconut oil and apply to sore muscles and joints for relief
✔ Combine with peppermint oil for a cooling muscle rub
For Sleep & Meditation:
✔ Diffuse before bed to improve sleep quality
✔ Apply to the bottom of your feet to promote relaxation before meditation
Sustainability: Is Frankincense at Risk?
With growing global demand, frankincense trees (Boswellia species) face overharvesting and climate change threats. Sustainable sourcing is critical to prevent population decline.
- Some species, like Boswellia sacra, are now classified as “Near Threatened” by conservation groups.
- Harvesting practices that involve excessive resin extraction damage tree health, reducing their lifespan.
- Ethical brands are now supporting fair-trade sourcing and conservation efforts.
When purchasing frankincense essential oil, look for sustainably harvested, wildcrafted, or organic sources to help protect this ancient resource.
Organic Oils in Massage Therapy at Herbal Stones
At Herbal Stones, we prioritize high-quality, organic and all natural ingredients in all our massage therapy sessions. We use only pure, therapeutic-grade essential oils, carefully selected to enhance relaxation, reduce muscle tension, and support overall wellness.
One of the key oils we incorporate is frankincense essential oil, known for its calming, anti-inflammatory, and skin-rejuvenating properties. Whether you’re seeking stress relief, muscle recovery, or a more profound sense of relaxation, our customized massage experiences ensure that every session nurtures both body and mind with the power of nature’s purest oils.
References
- Banno, N., Akihisa, T., Tokuda, H., Yasukawa, K., et al. (2006). The anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor-promoting effects of the triterpene acids from the resin of Boswellia carterii. Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 29(10), 2166-2170.
- Kimmatkar, N., Thawani, V., Hingorani, L., & Khiyani, R. (2003). Efficacy of Boswellia serrata extract in osteoarthritis: A randomized controlled trial. Phytomedicine, 10(1), 3-7.
- Farag, M. A., & Wessjohann, L. A. (2012). Volatile components of frankincense essential oil and its antimicrobial activities. Molecules, 17(10), 10344-10354.