Pure frankincense resin oil is a high-value essential oil derived from the resin of the Boswellia sacra tree. It has a warm, balsamic aroma with a sweet, woodsy scent.
Because frankincense is so popular and expensive, it’s important to understand the quality and sourcing of any frankincense products you purchase. Some products claiming to be frankincense may be misrepresented or impure.
Understanding Frankincense: The Boswellia Sacra Tree
Frankincense comes from Boswellia Sacra trees. Harvesters strip away bark to get to the resin.
The resin drips out and is collected as “tears.” The quality of the resin depends on the tree species, the soil where it grows, and the climate.
Some lower-priced products come from benzoin trees (Genus Styrax). Benzoin isn’t true frankincense. True frankincense is also called Olibanum or Lubaan.
How is frankincense resin oil produced?
Pure frankincense resin oil is produced through steam distillation, which turns the resin into a thick oil.
The key chemical components in frankincense include alpha pinene, actanol, and bornyl acetate.
It also includes smaller amounts of linalool, octyl acetate, incensole, and incensyl acetate.
How to avoid fake frankincense
If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. Be wary of products advertising “1/10th the price” of good frankincense or “less than $10 per 3ml,” as they may be low-quality or misrepresented.
Also, check the source. Make sure you can find clear information about the species (Boswellia Sacra) and where it came from.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you rub pure frankincense oil on your skin?
While frankincense oil is often used topically, applying it “pure” or undiluted is generally not recommended, but can be a beneficial addition to the best massage oil. Pure frankincense oil can be potent and may cause skin irritation, sensitivity, or allergic reactions in some individuals. It’s best to dilute it with a carrier oil like jojoba, coconut, or almond oil before applying it to your skin. A good starting point is a 1-3% dilution (1-3 drops of frankincense oil per teaspoon of carrier oil). Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin before applying it more widely.
What is frankincense resin oil good for?
Frankincense resin oil has been traditionally used for a variety of purposes, and can even be used in essential oil diffuser blends for sleep. Some people use it to reduce inflammation, promote relaxation, relieve pain, boost the immune system, and improve skin health. It’s also commonly used in aromatherapy to ease stress and anxiety, similar to the benefits found in Aromatherapy Associates bath oil sets. However, it’s important to note that scientific evidence supporting all of these uses is still emerging, and more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness.
Does frankincense really work for arthritis?
Some studies suggest that frankincense may have anti-inflammatory properties that could potentially help alleviate arthritis symptoms. Research indicates that certain compounds in frankincense may inhibit the production of inflammatory molecules. While some people with arthritis report experiencing relief with frankincense, it’s crucial to remember that it’s not a proven cure and should not replace conventional medical treatments. If you’re considering using frankincense for arthritis, discuss it with your doctor.
Why put frankincense oil on the bottom of your feet?
The practice of applying frankincense oil to the bottom of the feet stems from the belief that the feet have large pores that can absorb the oil quickly into the bloodstream. Additionally, some proponents believe that the feet are connected to various energy pathways in the body. While scientific evidence supporting these claims is limited, many people use this method for its potential systemic benefits, such as promoting relaxation, reducing stress, and boosting the immune system.
The Bottom Line
When it comes to frankincense resin oil, authenticity matters. True Boswellia sacra frankincense has properties that make it unique.
By understanding what contributes to the quality of frankincense resin oil, you can make informed purchasing decisions and choose a product that is right for you.