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Frankincense essential oil originates from the sap of Boswellia trees, particularly the Boswellia sacra and Boswellia carteri species, which produce the highest quality resin. The sap is harvested after the trees are cut in specific places, allowing the sap to flow out and harden into a substance called tar. This resin is then distilled into essential oil through steam refining.
Here are the key health benefits of frankincense essential oil that you can incorporate into your wellness routine:
1. Alleviates Arthritis Symptoms and Joint Pain
Studies on rats with induced arthritis have shown that frankincense, either alone or combined with myrrh, can slow the progression of inflammation and prevent the breakdown of cartilage. Although more human studies are needed, these findings suggest that frankincense essential oil could be a potential alternative treatment for arthritis.
2. Enhances Digestive Health
Frankincense essential oil may improve gut health and aid in the treatment of digestive disorders like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis. In one study, frankincense was found to be as effective as mesalazine, a drug commonly prescribed for Crohn’s symptoms. Another study showed that daily doses of frankincense significantly improved symptoms of ulcerative colitis, comparable to pharmaceutical treatments. Frankincense has also been shown to alleviate chronic diarrhea.
3. Reduces Anxiety and Depression
When used in aromatherapy or burned as incense, frankincense can promote calmness and elevate mood. In a study involving hospice patients, those who received hand massages with a blend of frankincense, lavender, and bergamot essential oils reported greater reductions in anxiety and depression compared to those who received massages with only carrier oil. Another study found that burning frankincense resin had positive psychoactive effects, reducing anxiety and exhibiting antidepressant-like properties in mice.
4. Manages Asthma Symptoms
Frankincense essential oil may also help alleviate symptoms of asthma and bronchitis. In a study, 70% of participants with bronchial asthma who took Boswellia experienced fewer asthma attacks, wheezing, and shortness of breath compared to those given a placebo. A supplement containing both frankincense and bael fruit was also found to be more effective than a placebo in easing asthma symptoms, making breathing easier for participants.
5. Promotes Oral Health
The antimicrobial properties of frankincense make it a popular ingredient in natural mouthwashes and toothpaste. Research has shown that Boswellic acids in frankincense help combat oral bacteria. In a double-blind trial with high school students suffering from gingivitis, those who were given frankincense extract or powder showed significant reductions in inflammation compared to those who received a placebo.
6. Fights Cancer
Research indicates that frankincense has promising anti-inflammatory and anti-tumor properties. In lab studies and animal tests, frankincense essential oil has shown the ability to fight specific types of cancer cells. A study conducted in China found that a combination of frankincense and myrrh essential oils increased the sensitivity of human breast and skin cancer cell lines. Another study discovered that a compound in frankincense called AKBA could kill cancer cells resistant to chemotherapy, suggesting its potential as a natural cancer treatment.
These are some of the remarkable health benefits of frankincense essential oil. As you explore these benefits, you might also want to learn more about the health advantages of frankincense oil and its uses.
