Frankincense Essential Oil: The King of Oils and Its Benefits
Discover why frankincense essential oil is revered for its rich history, benefits, and versatile uses. Learn how to incorporate it into your daily routine.
Frankincense Essential Oil: An Overview
Often referred to as the "king of oils", frankincense essential oil has been cherished for thousands of years for its aromatic and therapeutic properties. Extracted from the resin of the Boswellia tree, this precious oil is known for its calming and grounding qualities, making it a staple in both ancient rituals and modern essential oil practices.
The Origins of Frankincense
Frankincense has a rich history, valued not only for its fragrance but also for its potential benefits. Traditionally used by cultures in the Middle East, frankincense was often burnt during ceremonies and is mentioned in historical texts, including the Bible.
Frankincense Oil Benefits
This essential oil offers a plethora of benefits, making it a versatile addition to your essential oil collection. Here are some of the most noted frankincense oil benefits:
- Promotes Relaxation: The calming scent of frankincense may help to ease stress and anxiety.
- Supports Healthy Skin: Traditionally used for its skin-rejuvenating properties, frankincense can aid in reducing the appearance of scars and blemishes.
- Enhances Meditation: Due to its grounding nature, frankincense oil is often used in meditation and yoga practices.
- A Grounding Ritual: Its warm, resinous aroma is cherished as part of a comforting daily wellness and self-care routine.
How to Use Frankincense Essential Oil
There are numerous frankincense uses in your daily routine. Here are a few simple methods of incorporating this valuable oil:
1. Aromatic Use
One of the simplest ways to enjoy frankincense is through aromatherapy. For optimal benefit, use a diffuser:
- Fill your diffuser with water according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Add 5-10 drops of doTERRA Frankincense Essential Oil.
- Turn on the device and enjoy the calming aroma throughout your space.
2. Topical Application
For those interested in the skin benefits of frankincense, consider using it topically. Always dilute essential oils before applying them to the skin. A simple blend can be made as follows:
- In a small bottle, combine 10-15 drops of frankincense oil with 30ml of carrier oil (such as coconut or jojoba oil).
- Apply this blend to areas of concern, such as scars or dry skin.
3. Bath Soak
Transform your bathing experience by adding frankincense to your bath. Follow these steps:
- Add 5-7 drops of frankincense oil into a warm bath.
- For additional benefits, mix with Epsom salts before adding to the water.
- Relax and unwind as you soak in the soothing aroma.
Creating Your Own Frankincense Blend
Combining frankincense with other essential oils can enhance its effects. Here’s a simple recipe to create a calming blend:
- In a dark glass bottle, combine:
- 5 drops of frankincense essential oil
- 3 drops of lavender essential oil
- 2 drops of sweet orange essential oil
- Shake well and use in your diffuser or dilute with a carrier oil for topical use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is frankincense safe for everyone to use?
While frankincense is generally considered safe for most people, those with sensitive skin or medical conditions should consult a professional before use.
Can I ingest frankincense essential oil?
Ingesting frankincense essential oil is not recommended unless under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner or aromatherapist.
Where to Buy Frankincense Essential Oil
If you're ready to experience the benefits of frankincense, explore our range of high-quality products. We highly recommend doTERRA Frankincense Essential Oil 15 ml for its purity and potency.
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Selected research
Frankincense (Boswellia) has been examined in clinical research, most of it on standardised extracts rather than the essential oil itself.
- Majeed M, Majeed S, Narayanan NK, Nagabhushanam K. (2019). A pilot, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to assess the safety and efficacy of a novel Boswellia serrata extract in the management of osteoarthritis of the knee. Phytotherapy Research. PubMed 30838706
A randomised placebo-controlled pilot trial of a standardised Boswellia extract (an oral extract, not the essential oil). - Mohsenzadeh A, Karimifar M, Soltani R, Hajhashemi V. (2023). Evaluation of the effectiveness of topical oily solution containing frankincense extract in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. BMC Research Notes. PubMed 36869332
A randomised double-blind trial of a topical frankincense-extract preparation. - Abdel-Tawab M, Werz O, Schubert-Zsilavecz M. (2011). Boswellia serrata: an overall assessment of in vitro, preclinical, pharmacokinetic and clinical data. Clinical Pharmacokinetics. PubMed 21553931
A wide assessment of the laboratory and clinical evidence for Boswellia, including how much of it is preliminary.
These studies are shared so you can read the original research yourself. They describe what researchers observed under specific conditions — they are not a treatment recommendation, and they do not describe any specific product. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional about your own situation.