Frankincense oil is the extracted resin of the Boswellia tree. It has a woody scent that is somewhat spicy. It has been used throughout the centuries for its aromatic and healing properties. Frankincense is best known for its historical importance as one of the gifts of the wise men presented to the infant Jesus.
History
Frankincense was an important trade item for many cultures, including the Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, Chinese, Babylonians and Assyrians. The Babylonians, Assyrians and Egyptians burned frankincense in their temples as an offering to the gods during religious rites. The ancient Egyptians also ground the remains of to create kohl, the black substance they used for eyeliner. The Greeks and Romans used the aromatic resin as an incense, whereas the Chinese valued frankincense for its medicinal properties. Frankincense was used as a remedy for various ailments including leprosy and gonorrhea.
Perfume
The perfume industry uses frankincense as one of its ingredients. Since frankincense can take up to six hours to evaporate it is often used in perfume to increase the longevity of the fragrance. Its natural woody fragrance can also enhance scents resulting from fruity or spicy blends.
Aromatherapy
Practitioners of aromatherapy use frankincense in both essential oil and incense form. The aroma of frankincense is soothing and can help to calm the mind and relieve stress. A person can add a few drops of frankincense essential oil to the bath or burn the incense to enjoy the pleasant scent. In aromatherapy, practitioners use frankincense to clear the head as well as rejuvenate the mind and body.
Skin Care Products
Frankincense oil is sometimes an ingredient in creams or lotions. It is beneficial for normal and oily skin tones while rejuvenating dry or aging skin. It can help clear acne and reduce the appearance of scars. Frankincense oil can also soothe and speed healing of skin wounds and inflammation.
Healing
To relieve the symptoms of respiratory ailments such as bronchitis, asthma and colds, sufferers can use frankincense in a vaporizer. The aromatic steam helps clear the lungs, making breathing easier. Frankincense works as a massage oil to relieve the pain and stiffness of aching muscles and increase blood flow. The oil can also be massaged into the temples and/or neck to relieve tension headaches.
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