Discover the Majestic Power of Frankincense Essential Oil

frankincense essential oil

Frankincense essential oil is a valuable substance that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and religious practices. The oil is extracted from the resin of the Boswellia tree, which is native to Somalia, Oman, and Yemen. Frankincense oil has a rich history, and it has been used for various purposes ranging from perfumes to medicinal remedies.


Extraction Process of Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense essential oil is extracted from the resin of the Boswellia tree through a process called steam distillation. The process of harvesting the resin is a labor-intensive one and requires careful attention to detail.

The Boswellia tree is typically grown in arid and rocky terrain, and it can take up to 20 years for the tree to mature and produce resin. Once the tree reaches maturity, incisions are made into the bark to allow the resin to flow out. The resin is then left to harden and is harvested by hand.


Once the resin has been harvested, it is transported to a distillery where the essential oil is extracted. The first step in the distillation process is to grind the resin into a fine powder. This powder is then placed in a still with water and heated. As the water is heated, steam is produced, which passes through the resin and extracts the essential oil. The steam and oil mixture is then cooled, causing the oil to separate from the water.

The essential oil that is extracted from the resin is highly concentrated and potent. It has a rich, woody aroma and is often used in perfumes, cosmetics, and aromatherapy. The quality of the oil depends on a variety of factors, including the quality of the resin, the distillation process, and the skill of the distiller.

Overall, the extraction process for frankincense essential oil is a delicate and intricate one, requiring care and attention at every step to ensure the highest quality oil is produced.

frankincense resin

Chemical Compounds In Frankincense Essential Oil

The primary chemical compounds found in frankincense include monoterpenes, sesquiterpenes and diterpenoids - more specifically  alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, alpha-thujene, limonene, and beta-caryophyllene. These compounds are known for their anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and analgesic properties.

What Are The Health Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil?

Health Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil:

  1. Reduces Inflammation: Frankincense essential oil has potent anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in reducing inflammation throughout the body. This oil has been shown to help reduce pain and inflammation associated with conditions such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease.
  2. Boosts Immune System: Frankincense oil contains compounds that help boost the immune system, making it an effective remedy for colds, flu, and other respiratory infections.
  3. Reduces Anxiety and Stress: The soothing aroma of frankincense oil has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body, making it an effective remedy for anxiety and stress.
  4. Promotes Skin Health: Frankincense oil is a popular ingredient in skincare products due to its ability to promote skin health. It has been shown to help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improve skin tone and texture, and reduce the appearance of scars and blemishes.
doterra frankincense

How Can Frankincense Help Neurological Disorders?

Frankincense essential oil has been shown to have potential benefits for neurological disorders due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and neuroprotective properties. Here are a few ways frankincense oil can help with neurological disorders:

  1. Reduces Inflammation: Chronic inflammation is a common underlying factor in many neurological disorders, including Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, and multiple sclerosis. Frankincense oil has been shown to have potent anti-inflammatory effects, which may help reduce inflammation in the brain and protect against neurodegeneration.
  2. Protects Against Oxidative Stress: Oxidative stress is another factor that contributes to the development and progression of neurological disorders. Frankincense oil has antioxidant properties that help neutralize free radicals and protect against oxidative stress, reducing the risk of neurodegeneration.
  3. Enhances Cognitive Function: Frankincense oil has been shown to enhance cognitive function and improve memory in animal studies. It may also have potential benefits for individuals with dementia or other cognitive impairments.
  4. Calms the Nervous System: Frankincense oil has a calming effect on the nervous system, which may help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with neurological disorders that are associated with anxiety or stress.

While more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of frankincense oil for neurological disorders, preliminary studies suggest that it may be a promising natural remedy for promoting brain health and reducing the risk of neurodegeneration. As with any treatment for neurological disorders, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using frankincense oil.

What are the best ways to use Frankincense Essential Oil?

  1. Aromatherapy: Add a few drops of frankincense oil to a diffuser or a bowl of hot water to inhale the aroma.
  2. Topical Application: Mix a few drops of frankincense oil with a carrier oil such as coconut or jojoba oil and apply to the skin.
  3. Bath: Add a few drops of frankincense oil to your bathwater to promote relaxation and reduce stress.
  4. Massage: Mix a few drops of frankincense oil with a carrier oil and use it to massage sore muscles or joints.


What does Frankincense smell like?

Frankincense essential oil has a warm, woody, earthy scent with a hint of spice and sweetness. It is often likened to the smell of burning logs or incense in churches. The aroma is said to be calming and can help create a peaceful atmosphere that can soothe feelings of stress or anxiety. The unique combination of balsamic, sweet and spicy aromas can lift the mood and create a sense of tranquility. 

Frankincense oil has been used for centuries in spiritual and religious ceremonies due to its calming and meditative properties. When diffused, it can create a serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it a popular choice for aromatherapy and meditation. Overall, the scent of frankincense oil is distinctive and captivating, making it a favorite among essential oil enthusiasts.

What other essential oils does Frankincense blend well with?

Frankincense essential oil blends well with many other essential oils, enhancing their therapeutic properties and creating unique aromas. Some of the essential oils that blend well with frankincense oil include:

  1. Lavender essential oil: Lavender and frankincense are both calming and soothing oils, making them a great combination for promoting relaxation and reducing stress.
  2. Lemon essential oil: Lemon oil has a bright, citrusy scent that complements the earthy aroma of frankincense oil. This blend is refreshing and uplifting, making it a great choice for improving mood and energy levels.
  3. Peppermint essential oil: Peppermint oil is known for its cooling and invigorating properties, which make it an excellent complement to the calming effects of frankincense oil. This blend is great for promoting mental clarity and focus.
  4. Sandalwood essential oil: Sandalwood has a warm, woodsy scent that blends well with the earthy aroma of frankincense. This blend is grounding and calming, making it an excellent choice for meditation and spiritual practices.
  5. Rose essential oil: Rose oil has a floral, sweet aroma that complements the resinous scent of frankincense. This blend is uplifting and romantic, making it a great choice for enhancing mood and promoting emotional balance.

Overall, frankincense oil blends well with many essential oils, and experimenting with different combinations can help you create unique aromas and enhance the therapeutic benefits of each oil.


Why Is Frankincense called the King of Oils?

Frankincense essential oil is often referred to as the "king of oils" due to its long history of use in spiritual and religious practices, as well as its numerous health benefits. Here are a few reasons why frankincense oil has earned this nickname:

  1. Historical Significance: Frankincense has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine and spiritual practices, dating back to ancient Egypt and the Middle East. It was highly valued for its medicinal properties and was often used in religious ceremonies as an offering to the gods.
  2. Versatility: Frankincense oil has a wide range of therapeutic properties, making it a versatile and valuable oil. It has been used to promote relaxation, reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance cognitive function. It also has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties, making it a popular choice for promoting overall health and wellness.
  3. Rarity and Value: Frankincense oil is derived from the resin of the Boswellia tree, which grows in regions such as Somalia, Yemen, and Oman. The process of extracting the oil is time-consuming and labor-intensive, which contributes to its rarity and value.

Overall, frankincense oil has earned its reputation as the "king of oils" due to its historical significance, versatility, and rarity. Its unique aroma and numerous health benefits have made it a popular choice among aromatherapy enthusiasts and natural health practitioners.

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