Anxiety is one of the most prevalent mental disorders to affect Americans, according to a 2008 study by Arieh Moussaieff and colleagues in "The Journal of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology." Since many medications used for anxiety have negative side effects, researchers are looking for alternative options, writes Moussaieff. Frankincense is one possible alternative treatment, as it is a natural method to alleviate symptoms of anxiety, according to David Crow in his article for the National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy. Consult with your physician or a mental health expert for the best method to treat your anxiety.
Identification
Frankincense is also known as Boswellia. The resin from the frankincense tree is the substance used for its healing benefits, notes Crow. Anxiety comes with symptoms such as incessant worrying, irritability, feeling tired or restless, having difficulty sleeping, as well as physical symptoms such as sweating and shortness of breath, according to MayoClinic.com.
History
You most likely remember frankincense from the Bible, as one of the gifts the kings brought to Jesus. However, the use of frankincense goes far beyond that, as history records its trade back to the 11th century B.C., according to Crow. Frankincense was used in religious ceremonies and for its healing benefits throughout history, although Crow does not note what those benefits were thought to be at the time.
Features
Frankincense contains a compound called incensole acetate, which can prevent or decrease your anxiety, note Arieh Moussaieff and colleagues in their 2008 study. Their study researched the effects of incensole acetate on mice and found the compound changed areas of the brain associated with anxiety. More research is needed, especially to discover if this compound works the same way in humans.
Application
Although some cultures chew frankincense resin to receive its healing benefits, it is generally used in other ways to relieve anxiety symptoms. The 2008 study by Arieh Moussaieff and colleagues suggested creating a new medication out of the compound found in frankincense. You can also burn frankincense to diffuse its scent, which can calm anxiety, according to Crow. Finally, frankincense is used for anxiety through the use of its essential oil. Diffuse the essential oil into the air, mix it with a massage oil or put a few drops in a bath to help yourself calm down, relax and breathe more deeply.
Warning
Overall, frankincense is a safe essential oil, according to Masline and Close. However, it is best to test essential oils on a small spot of skin before applying them to large areas, as you could have a reaction. Also, you should consult with a certified aromatherapist on the best way to use essential oils.
References
- PubMed: Incensole Acetate, An Incense Component, Elicits Psychoactivity by Activating TRPV3 Channels in the Brain; Arieh Moussaieff et al; August 2008
- National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy: Frankincense and Myrrh - The Botany, Culture, and Therapeutic Uses of the World´s Two Most Important Resins
- MayoClinic.com: Generalized Anxiety Disorder - Symptoms
- "The A-Z Guide to Healing with Essential Oils"; Shelagh Masline and Barbara Close; 1997
