Frankincense, which comes from the Boswellia tree, is prized in many cultures for its fragrance and healing properties. People have used it for thousands of years.
This article will compare frankincense resin with frankincense essential oil. While both come from the same source, they have different compositions, methods of extraction, and uses.
Frankincense contains boswellic acids, which are known for reducing inflammation.
Understanding frankincense: From tree to product
The Boswellia tree and resin production
Frankincense comes from the resin of Boswellia trees. These trees are native to places like Somalia, Yemen, and India.
Historically, people have burned frankincense resin as incense. It’s also been used in traditional medicine.
Extraction methods: Resin extract vs. essential oil
Frankincense resin extract is usually obtained with solvents to isolate boswellic acids. The boswellic acids in frankincense are thought to be responsible for many of its health benefits.
Frankincense essential oil is extracted through steam distillation. However, this process may not capture all of the compounds found in the resin.
Key Components: Boswellic Acids and Aromatic Compounds
Frankincense resin and frankincense essential oil both contain beneficial compounds, but they differ in the types and amounts of those compounds.
Boswellic Acids: The Powerhouse of the Resin
Boswellic acids are pentacyclic triterpenes, which is a fancy way of saying they’re complex molecules with anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and potentially anti-cancer properties. They’re found in high concentrations in frankincense resin.
Boswellic acids work by blocking an enzyme called 5-lipoxygenase, which is involved in inflammation. Research also suggests they may have anti-tumor effects, but more studies are needed to confirm this.
Aromatic Compounds: The Essence of the Oil
Frankincense essential oil contains volatile aromatic compounds that give it its characteristic scent and potential therapeutic effects. These compounds are extracted through steam distillation.
However, steam distillation isn’t very good at capturing boswellic acids. So, while frankincense essential oil smells amazing and offers other benefits, it contains much lower concentrations of boswellic acids compared to the resin.
Therapeutic Benefits: Resin Extract vs. Essential Oil
Frankincense can be used in a variety of ways for a variety of health conditions. Let’s take a closer look at the benefits of both the resin extract and the essential oil.
Benefits of Frankincense Resin Extract (Boswellic Acid)
Boswellic acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Research shows they can reduce inflammation in conditions such as arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Boswellic acids may also have anti-tumor effects, especially in cases of brain tumors and leukemia. They may also improve gut health by reducing inflammation.
Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense essential oil is often used in aromatherapy to relieve stress, promote relaxation, and enhance spiritual practices, similar to the benefits of using Ayurvedic oil for muscle pain. It also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can promote wound healing and reduce the appearance of scars and wrinkles.
Frankincense essential oil may also help with respiratory issues such as asthma and bronchitis by reducing inflammation and loosening mucus. Some research shows that frankincense essential oil can boost your immune system.
Which frankincense product is right for you?
When it comes to frankincense, the right choice really depends on what you’re hoping to get out of it.
- If you’re looking for anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, a frankincense resin extract with a high concentration of boswellic acids might be your best bet.
- If you’re more interested in aromatherapy or skincare, frankincense essential oil could be a good option.
But be careful of marketing claims. Some companies make claims about essential oil benefits that aren’t really backed up by science, mainly because essential oils don’t contain much boswellic acid.
No matter what you choose, look for reputable brands that are transparent about how they extract the oil and what’s actually in their products.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which form of frankincense is best?
The “best” form of frankincense depends entirely on your intended use. For burning as incense and experiencing its traditional aroma, frankincense resin is the clear winner. If you’re looking for topical application, aromatherapy benefits, or easy dilution for skincare, frankincense essential oil is generally preferred. Both have their unique strengths, so it boils down to personal preference and application.
What is the difference between essential oils and resins?
Essential oils are concentrated, volatile aromatic compounds extracted from plants, typically through distillation or cold pressing. Resins, on the other hand, are solid or semi-solid substances secreted by plants, often containing a mix of terpenes, acids, and other compounds. Essential oils are liquid at room temperature, while resins are solid and often require heat to release their aroma.
What do you use frankincense resin for?
Frankincense resin is primarily used for burning as incense, a practice deeply rooted in religious and cultural traditions. When burned, it releases a fragrant smoke that’s believed to have spiritual, medicinal, and mood-enhancing properties. It can also be infused into oils or tinctures, though this requires specific knowledge and techniques.
Is frankincense essential oil the same as frankincense resin?
No, frankincense essential oil and frankincense resin are not the same, though they both originate from the same source: the frankincense tree. The resin is the raw, unprocessed sap, while the essential oil is a concentrated extract derived from the resin through steam distillation. They have different chemical compositions, aromas, and applications, though both offer potential health benefits.
Closing thoughts
Frankincense resin extract and frankincense essential oil are both derived from the same source, but they have different chemical compositions and extraction methods.
They each have their own benefits, so the right product for you will depend on the results you’re hoping to achieve.