Unlike other aromatics, Frankincense essential oil is not obtained directly
from the plant. It actually comes from an oleo-gum resin collected from
several oriental trees of the genus Boswellia that grow in the Northeast
Africa and Arabia. The primary species that Frankincense comes from is the
Boswellia carteri; others include Boswellia frereana, Boswellia papyifera,
Boswellia sacra and Boswellia serrata. The gum resin is harvested by making
incisions into the bark. A milky-white, sticky liquid exuded from the cuts
will slowly harden and crystallize into tear-shaped, white/amber/orange
lumps. The lumps are then dissolved and distilled to produce the essential
oil.
Frankincense essential oil has the ability to slow down and deepen the
breath, and to breathe more slowly and deeply soon produces feelings of
calm, which are very conductive to prayer and meditation. It is particularly
active with regard to the lungs, and is one of the most valuable oils for
use in respiratory infections. It is one of the best pulmonary antiseptics,
calm coughs, and is indicated particularly where there is bronchial catarrh,
for example, in chronic bronchitis. Use it in inhalations, massage and
baths. Frankincense essential oil is very helpful for people with asthma,
because of the way in which it slows and deepens the breathing.
In skincare, Frankincense essential oil is particularly helpful for older
skins, and has a definite tonic effect, helping to restore some tone to
slack looking facial skin, and slowing down the appearance of wrinkles.
It may even reduce the extent of wrinkles that have already formed.
Frankincense essential oil has clean, fresh, turpentine top notes and sweet,
warm, balsamic, camphoraceous, wood-smoke undertones.
Frankincense essential oil is a valuable aid to meditation and prayer,
inspiring mystical, divine mind states and stilling the mind. It was
traditionally used to drive away bad spirits, and it helps to break links
with the past.
Frankincense essential oil is generally regarded as non-toxic,
non-irritating and non-sensitizing.
Do not take essential oils internally or use without the guidance of a
qualified practitioner. The information provided here is for general use
only and is not intended to replace medical diagnosis or treatment.
Pregnant women should always consult their physician prior to using.
