What do you think about when you hear the word Frankincense? Many people are reminded of the story of the Three Wise Men and their offerings to baby Jesus − one of them being Frankincense.
Frankincense has indeed been a beneficial and valuable item for thousands of years. It was traded amongst ancient civilizations and used during sacred ceremonies. The story goes that it was even found in King Tutankhamen’s tomb!
This grounding essential oil is one of our favorites and is sought after by our consumers. Keep reading as we explore this amazing essential oil.
What is Frankincense Oil?
The precious oil has a woody, earthy and sweet aroma that is incredibly popular in aromatherapy. It is sometimes known as the “king of oils” due to its versatility, and its properties are just as useful now as they were in ancient times.
It is steam distilled from the fragrant, gummy resin of the Indian frankincense tree − known as Boswellia serrata. The trees have drooping branches and grow in mountainous regions of India.
Frankincense Oil Benefits
Frankincense oil boosts physical, mental and emotional health. It has stress-relieving properties and promotes focus and grounding by encouraging a feeling of calm and centeredness.
A component found in frankincense oil − boswellic acid − makes it an effective anti-inflammatory oil. It can be applied topically to soothe sore muscles and joints. These properties are also great for skin problems, insect bites and inflammation.
Studies have found that boswellic acid is antimicrobial, making it helpful to naturally reduce bad breath, toothache, gingivitis, oral and skin infections, cuts and grazes. Inhaling it may help to boost immunity, and it can be used to disinfect the germs lurking in your home, purify the air and clean surfaces.
Frankincense oil encourages the regeneration of skin cells. It slows down skin aging, encourages even skin tone and reduces the appearance of wrinkles, sun damage, scars and stretch marks.
Some of the other benefits of Frankincense include:
● Boosting mood
● Encouraging deep relaxation
● Encouraging concentration and clarity
● Repelling insects
● Soothing aching muscles after exercise
● Boosting immunity
● Soothing dry skin
Oils that Complement Frankincense
Frankincense essential oil blends well with a variety of other essential oils. Try combining it with lavender, orange, grapefruit, sandalwood, cedarwood, neroli, lemon, geranium, rose, ylang ylang or clary sage oils.
How to Use Frankincense Oil
We love using this oil in many ways − including inhaling, diffusing, applying topically and using for home cleaning.
Diffuse frankincense oil by adding 3-5 drops per 100ml of water to an oil diffuser. This can kill germs in the air, boost immunity and promote feelings of calm.
Apply it topically by diluting 4-6 drops in 20ml (2 Tbsp) of carrier oil. Massage this oil into sore muscles, joints and other problem areas.
For a soothing and anti-aging skin remedy, add 1-2 drops of frankincense oil to your face cream or body lotion.
You can also put 5-10 drops in a warm bath for a stress-relieving soak.
Frankincense Oil Recipes
Frankincense oil is versatile and great for use in homemade essential oil recipes. Here are a few of our favorites.
Household Cleaner
Clean your home naturally and keep insects away using frankincense oil.
Add 10 drops frankincense oil, 10 drops lemon oil, and 8 drops tea tree oil, 1 cup water and ½ cup pure vodka to a spray bottle. Use this to clean floors, windows and all the surfaces in your home.
Pain-Relief Massage Oil
Combine ¼ cup jojoba oil, 8 drops frankincense oil, 4 drops peppermint oil and 4 drops lavender oil in a bottle. Gently massage some oil into sore joints and muscles and any other problem areas. Store this blend in a cool place.
Bath Salt Blend
Make a relaxing bath salt blend that will soothe the mind and body and nourish the skin.
Combine 1 cup Epsom salts, ½ cup sea salt, ¼ cup bicarbonate of soda, 8 drops frankincense oil, 6 drops Roman chamomile oil and 4 drops lavender oil. Mix this well and store in a clean jar. Add ¼ cup to a warm bath and enjoy a meditative experience for mind and body.
Diffuser Blend
Make an essential oil blend to diffuse for clarity, balancing and grounding. Add 3 drops frankincense oil, 2 drops sandalwood oil and 1 drop patchouli oil to 100ml of water in an oil diffuser.
Final Thoughts
Frankincense oil is a warming essential oil that will quickly become your favorite. We have no doubt you'll soon find yourself craving its aroma and the sense of peace and focus it brings.
