Frankincense has been prized for thousands of years. Ancient peoples burned it in religious rituals and used it to treat a variety of conditions, similar to the use of beeswax candles.
Today, you can buy frankincense in many forms, including organic frankincense resin oil. This oil is extracted from the resin of Boswellia trees. To be certified as organic, it must meet certain standards for how the trees are grown and how the oil is processed.
This article will explore the potential benefits and uses of organic frankincense resin oil. It will also cover what to keep in mind if you’re thinking about using it.
What is Organic Frankincense Resin?
Frankincense resin comes from the Boswellia tree. There are different kinds of Boswellia trees, including Boswellia sacra, Boswellia carterii, and Boswellia serrata. These trees grow in specific regions around the world, mainly in Africa, India, and the Middle East.
It’s important to harvest the resin in a way that protects the Boswellia trees. Over-harvesting can hurt the tree populations, so ethical and sustainable harvesting is key.
What does “organic” mean?
When frankincense resin is labeled “organic,” it means the trees that produce it were grown without using synthetic pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers.
To make sure the frankincense is truly organic, it should be certified by a third party. These certifying bodies ensure that organic standards are followed. Buying certified organic frankincense resin helps support sustainable and ethical practices.
How is frankincense resin oil extracted and what’s in it?
Manufacturers extract frankincense resin oil using a couple of methods.
Extraction methods
The first method is steam distillation. Steam distillation involves sending steam through the frankincense resin. The steam pulls out the oil compounds, and then the steam is condensed back into liquid form. The oil and water are separated, leaving the frankincense oil behind.
Another way to extract the oil from frankincense resin is CO2 extraction. In this method, carbon dioxide is put under high pressure until it becomes a liquid. This liquid CO2 then acts as a solvent to pull the oil out of the resin. After the extraction is done, the pressure is released, and the CO2 turns back into a gas, leaving behind a very pure frankincense oil.
Key chemical constituents
Frankincense oil has hundreds of components, but some are more important than others.
Terpenes like alpha-pinene and limonene give frankincense oil its distinctive aroma and may be responsible for some of its therapeutic effects.
Boswellic acids are considered the primary active compounds in frankincense, especially in Boswellia serrata.
Frankincense also contains other beneficial compounds that researchers are still studying.
What are the potential health benefits of organic frankincense resin oil?
Traditional medicine has long used frankincense resin oil, and studies are showing that it may have some real benefits for your health. Here are some of the most promising areas:
Anti-inflammatory properties
Frankincense contains compounds called boswellic acids. Scientists think these acids work by blocking certain pathways in the body that cause inflammation, like the 5-LOX pathway.
Because of this, frankincense oil could potentially help manage inflammatory conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease. More research is needed, but the early results are promising.
Skin health benefits
Frankincense oil may help wounds heal faster and reduce scarring. It’s also being studied for its anti-aging effects, like reducing wrinkles and improving skin elasticity.
Respiratory health
In traditional medicine, frankincense has been used to treat respiratory problems like coughs, colds, and asthma. Some research suggests it may help reduce inflammation in the airways, potentially easing asthma symptoms.
Mental and emotional well-being
Frankincense oil is often used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety and promote relaxation. Some people also find that it improves their mood and helps them focus better.
While these potential benefits are exciting, it’s important to remember that more research is needed to fully understand how frankincense oil works and how effective it is for different conditions. Talk to your doctor before using frankincense oil, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
How to Use Organic Frankincense Resin Oil
Organic frankincense resin oil is a versatile substance with a range of uses, much like incorporating herbal bath salts into your daily life. Here’s how to incorporate it into your daily life:
Topical Application
One of the most common ways to use frankincense oil is by applying it to your skin. However, it’s crucial to dilute it with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil to prevent skin irritation. A few drops of frankincense in an ounce of carrier oil is a good place to start.
Diluted frankincense oil can be a nice addition to your skincare routine. Some people use it for acne, wrinkles, or minor skin irritations.
Aromatherapy
Frankincense oil is often used in aromatherapy for its calming and grounding effects. You can use a diffuser to disperse the oil into the air, creating a relaxing atmosphere in your home.
For quick relief from stress or anxiety, try inhaling directly from the bottle or from a cloth with a few drops of frankincense oil on it.
Internal Use (with Caution)
While some people ingest frankincense oil, it’s essential to consult a healthcare professional before doing so. It’s critical to discuss it with your healthcare provider before consuming it. They can help you understand potential risks, such as digestive upset or interactions with medications you’re already taking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of frankincense resin oil?
Frankincense resin oil boasts a range of potential benefits, though it’s essential to remember that more research is often needed. Traditionally, it’s been used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, potentially aiding in conditions like arthritis. Some also use it for skincare, believing it can promote wound healing and reduce the appearance of scars and wrinkles. Aromatherapeutically, it’s used to reduce stress, anxiety, and promote relaxation. However, remember to consult a healthcare professional for medical advice.
Does frankincense really work for arthritis?
Frankincense shows promise as a complementary treatment for arthritis due to its potential anti-inflammatory effects. Some studies suggest it may help reduce pain and improve function in individuals with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. However, it’s not a replacement for conventional medical treatment. Discuss frankincense with your doctor to determine if it’s a suitable addition to your arthritis management plan.
What happens when you put frankincense on the bottom of your feet?
Some people apply frankincense oil to the soles of their feet, believing it allows for quicker absorption into the bloodstream due to the large pores and sweat glands in that area. While there’s limited scientific evidence to support this specific claim, proponents suggest it may offer systemic benefits, such as reducing inflammation or promoting relaxation. However, remember that individual results may vary, and this is anecdotal. Always dilute essential oils before topical application to minimize potential skin sensitivity.
Can you put frankincense oil directly on your skin?
Generally, it’s not recommended to apply frankincense essential oil directly to your skin without dilution. Essential oils are highly concentrated and can cause skin irritation, sensitivity, or allergic reactions if used undiluted. Always dilute frankincense oil with a carrier oil, such as jojoba, almond, or coconut oil, before applying it topically. A general guideline is a 1-3% dilution ratio, meaning 1-3 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. Perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it more widely.
The Bottom Line
Organic frankincense resin oil has been used for centuries, and some research suggests it may help with everything from arthritis pain to asthma symptoms. Some people also use it to reduce stress or boost their immunity.
If you’re interested in trying it, be sure to choose a high-quality, certified organic product. This helps ensure you’re getting a pure and potent oil, free from pesticides and other harmful chemicals.
While the research on organic frankincense resin oil is promising, more studies are needed to fully understand all of its potential health benefits.