Frankincense oil

Frankincense resin and frankincense essential oil were the “gold of caravans” in ancient times. Frankincense was mainly used in religious ceremonies and in places of prayer and meditation and was considered a sacred and precious commodity.

Frankincense is traditionally known as a cosmetic and medicinal product. It has always been associated with longevity and memory. The resin was burned to drive out evil spirits and establish contact with the Higher Powers. Frankincense has a pleasant, intoxicating, spicy-woody aroma. The sweet, warm, balsamic aroma invigorates and revitalizes the spirit.

Origin and characteristics Frankincense

Frankincense is a fragrant resin, also called “olibanum,” from the Boswellia Sacra tree. The word “olibanum” may come from the Arabic al-luban, meaning milk – perhaps a reference to the milky liquid that flows from the Boswellia tree when cut. The name may also be short for “oil of Lebanon,” as olibanum was traded from Lebanon by European traders. Olibanum resin is one of the oldest frankincense resins in existence. Ancient trade routes and cities have been discovered in the Arabian Desert that owe their wealth to the frankincense and myrrh trade. Until the 20th century, Arabian incense was as precious as gold.

Boswellia sacra is a small deciduous tree with one or more trunks. The bark has a papery texture and is easily peeled. Compound leaves grow opposite each other along the branches, and small yellowish-white flowers are collected in clusters. Individual trees growing on steep slopes tend to have buttress roots: large, wide roots on all sides that prevent the tree from falling over while at the same time collecting more nutrients.

The natural function of resin is to protect the tree when the bark is damaged, the resin protects the tree from parasites that can cause diseases or fungi. To increase the yield of resin, deep cuts are made in the bark and the resin that flows out is collected.

Frankincense Oil and Its Benefits

Frankincense oil, known as the king of essential oils, has many beneficial properties. This powerful oil is prized for its ability to rejuvenate the skin when applied topically. As in the past, when frankincense was highly prized for religious ceremonies, for use in soothing skin ointments, and in perfumes, it continues to be one of the most popular essential oils. The aroma of frankincense evokes feelings of contentment and relaxation.

Frankincense oil, obtained from the resin by steam distillation, has a light yellow color. As a nourishing oil, frankincense is most suitable for dry and aging skin. Frankincense oil contains a large number of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes and thanks to them has strong antibacterial properties and promotes skin healing.

In addition, frankincense oil has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, wound-healing, immunostimulating, expectorant, antidepressant, sedative and possibly antitumor effects.

Frankincense oil for skin care

Frankincense oil has been used for skin care since ancient times. In particular, it has been proven that it perfectly cares for mature skin and slows down the natural aging process of the skin. Because frankincense oil contains antioxidants, it helps heal ulcers and rashes, burns, cuts and scrapes. In fact, frankincense oil is an indispensable skin care product and is often used in cosmetic products to stimulate cell renewal, improve elasticity and slow down the formation of wrinkles.

The oil is used to prevent stretch marks and reduce scars, and also helps with itching and swelling from insect bites. Frankincense also regulates sebum production, making it suitable for oily skin as well.

Soothing effect – The powerful cleansing properties of frankincense essential oil make it an effective soothing agent for the skin. It has the ability to strengthen the protective function of the epidermis, soothing and nourishing the affected areas of the skin. Skin defects and irritation from shaving can also be reduced with frankincense. The soothing effect of this oil helps relieve skin irritation, you just need to add it to your regular aftershave.

Rejuvenation – Frankincense oil is ideal as an anti-aging agent for mature skin, it reduces fine lines and wrinkles, nourishing and strengthening the epidermis, which gives the skin a fresh and youthful appearance.

Dry and cracked skin on your hands from the cold winter air? Frankincense can help here! To moisturize and rejuvenate the skin of your hands, add a few drops of frankincense oil to your favorite moisturizer. Apply a drop of this essential oil to your nails and they will become shiny and healthy again.

Balance – Frankincense essential oil is effective against impurities in the skin pores and pigmentation. This oil cleanses oily skin and the epidermis, giving the skin a healthy appearance. Frankincense has a tonic and astringent effect and is suitable for dry, aging skin and for preventing stretch marks. The oil soothes and heals minor wounds, scars and ulcers. Ulcers caused by varicose veins can also be treated with frankincense.

Frankincense has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making it useful for acne and eczema.

Frankincense Oil for the Respiratory Tract

Frankincense oil has also been shown to be effective in fighting colds. It thins mucus, helps clear the airways and increase their resistance to disease. Used as a massage oil, it has an anti-inflammatory effect and therefore reduces the risk of infection.

Frankincense for Arthritis

The triterpene acids found in frankincense oil are found to be responsible for its anti-inflammatory effect. Frankincense has been used in India for centuries in traditional remedies for arthritis. Studies have shown that some substances in frankincense actually stimulate collagen formation and fight inflammation that causes arthritis. Some other scientific studies have concluded that frankincense affects and helps treat conditions such as asthma, arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Frankincense Oil and Aromatherapy

Like other essential and aromatic oils, frankincense oil also has a number of uses such as skin care, physical and mental health. Frankincense oil has a powerful cleansing effect on the atmosphere, as well as on the body and mind. Therefore, frankincense oil is especially popular in aromatherapy. Frankincense oil relieves tension, relieves headaches and promotes a good night’s sleep. It relaxes the mind and is very suitable for use in meditation and yoga.

Relaxation and stimulation

Frankincense essential oil has been shown to have a positive effect on stress symptoms and improve concentration. The calming properties of this oil restore emotional balance and help overcome stress and despair.

Frankincense oil is suitable for inhalation or spraying, as well as for topical application to the body for deeper penetration and a calming sensation. Using an aroma vaporizer, frankincense refreshes the air with the scent of aromatic resin, it can also be mixed with other essential oils. Frankincense has the ability to make other aromas more intense and intriguing.

When using a vaporizer, bronchitis (asthmatic and catarrhal) is alleviated, excess mucus is regulated and breathing becomes deeper. Frankincense is a versatile essential oil that should be in every home.