Frankincense: Benefits & Creative Uses

​I've been sharing my journey with essential oils on the blog here and there. As I learn about the incredible healing powers of essential oils, I get so excited to pass along this knowledge to you!

Although I have yet to come across an essential oil I don't love, I have a few that I consistently reach for based on their amazing benefits. One of these oils is Frankincense and below I'll explain why this is one of my favorites, and share some creative uses for this oil in your life.

What is Frankincense?

Frankincense oil is sourced from the resin of Olibanum trees, otherwise known as the Boswellia Carteri. These trees grow in Oman, Yemen, Somalia and Ethiopia. Frankincense is the dried sap of these trees, and when dried, the sap is burned as incense and thought to have several medicinal properties.
Frankincense oil has been discovered in the remains of ancient Egyptian and Anglo-Saxon civilizations, and is closely associated with religious traditions and rites, particularly the Christian tradition. Although it is ancient, it's healing properties are still closely studied and utilized by traditional and non-traditional practitioners.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties: ​

An active agent within Frankincense called Boswellic acid is thought to be the reason why this essential oil has anti-inflammatory properties, and can mimic the action of NSAIDs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen.
If you've been following my healing journey as well, you'll know that I've been dealing with inflammation related to Dyshidrotic Eczema, and Frankincense has been imperative throughout this process. Due to the anti-inflammatory properties of Boswellic acid, Frankincense can be used to treat diseases such as arthritis, asthma, Crohn’s, and even bladder, pancreatic, and skin cancers. Frankincense also shows a lower risk of unpleasant or dangerous side effects compared to NSAIDs.

Home:

​Frankincense is naturally disinfecting, so it can be used to get rid of bugs and germs in your home, without the need to introduce harsh chemicals.  Dilute the Frankincense by adding 5-7 drops into a medium sized spray bottle.  Bonus: Your home will smell amazing!!!!

Beauty:

Frankincense has the ability to encourage skill cell regeneration while also toning, tightening, and lifting. It can also help to decrease wrinkle, reduce acne breakouts, diminish stretch marks, scars, sun spots, and more. Tip: When applying to the skin, be sure to use a carrier oil such as jojoba, coconut, or sweet almond oil. I know it sounds counter intuitive to put oil on your face, but they can do wonders for the skin!

Stress Relief:

Using Frankincense to relieve stress, fatigue, and anxiety is how I was originally introduced to this oil. I typically rub it on my pulse points (wrists and sides of neck), and also rub it into my feet. Did you know the soles of the feet have over 200 pores?! Also be sure to use carrier oils such as jojoba, coconut or sweet almond oil, when putting essential oils directly on the skin.
I also rub it on my palms, hold my palms up to my face and take 5 deep breaths. Sometimes I will also speak affirmations or mantras on each inhale and exhale. The combination of the aromatherapy, the long deep breaths, and the mantra immediately decreases my stress and anxiety. Some examples of mantras would be: inhale "I breathe in safety and peace", exhale: "I release what I cannot control". Or simply stating "I am breathing in" on each inhale and "I am breathing out" on each exhale.
Have you tried Frankincense, or any essential oils? If so, how do you use them in your life?  What are your favorites? You know I love to hear from you!