Frankincense is a sticky resin produced by a tree from the Burseraceae family. Humans have used frankincense for a variety of purposes since at least the 15th century BC. The oil derived from frankincense, which is also known as essential oil of frankincense, has a viscous consistency, a yellow-green color, and a balsamic, resinous aroma. Frankincense oil possesses several healing properties. Check with your doctor before using frankincense oil to heal any condition.
Anxiety and Stress
For thousands of years, people have embraced frankincense oil for its ability to inspire meditative states. It can promote a feeling of relaxation and emotional balance in time of anxiety and stress. To remedy anxiety and stress with frankincense oil, inhale its distinctive, resinous aroma. Drizzle a few drops of frankincense oil onto a cloth, and press the cloth close to your face while breathing deeply, or pour a bit of frankincense oil into a specially designed essential oil diffuser that is heated by a candle or light bulb; it will diffuse the aroma throughout the room.
Coughing and Bronchitis
Frankincense oil may help relieve coughing and bronchitis. Place a few drops of frankincense oil in a pot or bowl of steaming hot water. Position your head a few inches above the bowl or pot, and drape a cloth or towel over your head to keep the fragrant steam trapped. Inhale the aromatic steam for several minutes, making sure to remove the cloth or towel and take a break if you feel overheated or dizzy.
Scars and Stretch Marks
Frankincense oil may promote the healing of scars and the fading of stretch marks. There are several ways to safely expose the skin to frankincense oil: you can add a few drops to your bath water, to face creams and facial toners, to body lotions and to massage oils. To use frankincense oil to heal scars and stretch marks, dilute a few drops in some massage oil, such as jojoba oil or grapeseed oil, and rub the diluted frankincense oil into the scar or stretch mark daily. Avoid applying any undiluted essential oils, including frankincense oil, directly to the skin, as doing so may cause irritation.
References
- "The Aromatherapy Bible: The Definitive Guide to Using Essential Oils"; Gil Farrer-Halls; 2005
- "Healing Oils Of The Bible"; David Stewart, 2004.
- Aura Cacia: Frankincense and Myhrr Essential OIls
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