Frequently Asked Questions - Frankincense & Myrrh (2024)

FAQs

What are the benefits of frankincense and myrrh together? ›

In TCM, frankincense and myrrh are both traditional remedies for promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis. They often appear in the same prescription in the form of drug pairs. They usually have stronger synergistic effects than single medicines.

Frankincense was used for worship in the Temple; it is symbolic of Christ the High Priest. Gold is symbolic of Christ the King. Myrrh a perfume, was used to anoint dead bodies, it is symbolic of His death for the sake of truth, and therefore of Christ the Prophet.

Frankincense, along with myrrh, has been prescribed in traditional Chinese medicine and administered for treatment of blood stagnation and inflammation diseases in addition to pain relief and swelling. A study done by nine doctors in China revealed frankincense and myrrh may help in the treatment of cancer.

Since ancient times, burning of frankincense and myrrh in places of worship for spiritual purposes and contemplation (a ubiquitous practice across various religions) had hygienic functions, to refine the smell and reduce contagion by purifying the indoor air.

In China, Frankincense and Myrrh are often used together on clinic in order to obtain a synergistic effect for relieving pain and activating blood circulation, and especially to treat inflammatory diseases (e.g., RA).

They both have lots of antioxidants and anti-flammatory properties and aid in reducing not only wrinkles but also scarring and stretch marks.

THERE ARE two traditions. The first, referred to in the carol 'We Three Kings', interprets the gifts as symbolising three aspects of Christ's future life: gold representing kingship, frankincense (worship) and myrrh (death and mourning).

The three gifts had a spiritual meaning: gold as a symbol of kingship on earth, frankincense (an incense) as a symbol of deity, and myrrh (an embalming oil) as a symbol of death. This dates back to Origen in Contra Celsum: "gold, as to a king; myrrh, as to one who was mortal; and incense, as to a God."

Myrrh gum is commonly harvested from the species Commiphora myrrha. Another commonly used name, Commiphora molmol, is now considered a synonym for Commiphora myrrha.

It can prevent the production of inflammatory substances in the joints. Current evidence, based on four RCTs, suggests that it might have some beneficial effects in treating participants with osteoarthritis of the knee which might last for a period of time after treatment is stopped.

What is the best carrier oil to mix with frankincense? ›

The carrier oils that can be used for frankincense are fractionated coconut oil, jojoba oil, olive oil, and sweet almond oil. Some additional carrier oils that can be used are avocado oil, macadamia nut oil, grapeseed oil, apricot kernel oil, extra virgin olive oil, and avocado oil.

Myrrh seems safe for most people when used in small amounts. It can cause some side effects such as skin rash if applied directly to the skin, and diarrhea if taken by mouth. Large doses may be UNSAFE. Amounts greater than 2-4 grams can cause kidney irritation and heart rate changes.

Another option is to mix it with your favourite moisturiser or body lotion as part of your daily skincare routine. You can also diffuse frankincense or myrrh with an oil diffuser, so you simply inhale its properties as you relax and unwind at home.

In aromatherapy, frankincense essential oil is used to relieve stress, promote relaxation, and ease congestion. It's calming and spiritual aroma is also a great mood enhancer, and some claim that it can help improve concentration and memory as well.

How Many Times a Day Should I Burn Incense? Incense sticks generally burn for about an hour, but the scent tends to linger in a room for a few hours afterwards. Burning 1-2 incense sticks a day in one space should be plenty, however if you choose to use different scents for different rooms, you may wish to burn more.

“And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh.”

It helps to raise the level of consciousness by reconnecting people with their innermost emotions and the energies that surround them. Its positive impact on spiritual and emotional well-being is recognised in many disciplines. Myrrh is used extensively in aromatherapy, hydrolatherapy, phytotherapy and energy rituals.

Frankincense or Boswellia serrata has been used traditionally as a medication against inflammatory diseases for a long time. Besides α- and β-boswellic acid, it contains other pentacyclic triterpenic acids, which inhibit pro-inflammatory processes via 5-lipoxygenase and cyclo-oxygenase.

Frankincense essential oil, with its time-tested reputation for calming the mind and soothing the spirit, has become popular among those who struggle to fall asleep. By calming an overactive mind, this essential oil can encourage a deeper sleep.