Frankincense (Boswellia carteri)

5:18 PM Posted by jo

Frankincense is one of my favorite oils. I use it often and it is also my dog's favorite essential oil. We used to live in an area in Texas where allergies are high and my dog developed allergies after we moved here. Frankincense was a life saver during the times when my dog's allergies caused the most congestion. I simply added a few drops of oils on the palms of my hands, and I rubbed my hands together before I put the hands in front of the nose to let the dog inhale the oil. This was extremely effective in calming her, as well as ease the congestion during her panic attacks when she could hardly breath.

Frankincense has a warm, sweet, balsamic, woody, spicy scent with a hint of lemon. It slows down breathing and produces feelings of calm. It has historically been used for respiratory congestion. It also has astringent properties, which may also help balance oily skin conditions.

Frankincense has cytophylactic properties. Cytophylactic means that the oils stimulate the generation of new cells, which will aid in preserving the health of the skin. These oils are also used for treatments of burns. Frankincense has traditionally been used for wrinkles and scars, so I use if for wrinkle prevention and my son for his huge facial scar from his surgery.

According to Battaglia, frankincense has historically been used for respiratory catarrhal discharge and respiratory congestion. It may be helpful for asthma sufferers according to Battaglia. He also states that as an astringent it may relieve heavy periods, and it generally acts as tonic to the uterus.

According to Gary Young, researchers have discovered that due to the sesquiterpene content, frankincense stimulates the hypothalamus, pituitary, and the pineal glands. The hypothalamus is considered the master gland and it controls the release of thyroid hormones as well as growth hormone.

According to Gary Young, frankincense may help with allergies, bronchitis, insect and snake bites, cancer, respiratory infections, diphteria, headaches, hemorrhaging, herpes, high blood pressure, stress, tonsilitis, warts, and typhoid. Its constituent sesquiterpene has the ability to cross the blood brain barrier.

It blends well with basil, bergamot, black pepper, jasmine, lavender, geranium, lemon, orange, patchouli, pine, rose, sandalwood, vetiver, and ylang ylang.

Before you leave:

I recommend that you always perform a skin patch test when you try a new oil.

Check out my safety page to make sure you are aware of any contrindications before you use essential oils. Some oils are not suitable when suffering from certain conditions. Also, Read this Before You Start Using Essential oils. Some oils should not be applied prior to sun exposure so make sure you check this list before spending time in the sun.

Not sure how to apply the oils? Visit these pages to learn how to apply the oils:

Topical Application

Inhaling Essential Oils

Are You Diffusing the Oils Correctly?

How to Dilute Essential Oils

Vita Flex Technique

If you're new to essential oils you might want to check out my Getting Started Guide.

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Johanna is an aromatherapist and she is passionate about educating people about health, essential oils, real food, natural remedies, and nutrition so they make healthier choices in their lives.
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