Frankincense oil is an essential oil that has a wide range of potential health benefits. These essential oil benefits include reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and boosting immunity. Frankincense oil is also used as a natural perfume and incense.
Keep on reading to learn more about the many benefits of frankincense oil!
What is Frankincense Oil?
Frankincense oil is extracted from the resin of the Boswellia tree. The tree is native to Africa and the Middle East and has been used for centuries in traditional medicine. The resin is collected from the tree and then steam distilled to create the essential oil.
The main compounds in frankincense oil are terpenes, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Research suggests that frankincense oil may be effective in treating conditions like arthritis, Crohn's disease, and ulcerative colitis.
What is Frankincense Oil Used For?
Frankincense oil is used for a variety of purposes, including aromatherapy, skincare, and digestion. This oil also has a wide range of potential health benefits, including reducing inflammation, boosting cellular function, and relieving stress.
Frankincense Oil Benefits
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Helps Reduces Inflammation
Frankincense oil contains a compound called boswellic acid, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. Boswellic acid was found to have similar effects to the anti-inflammatory drug celecoxib (Celebrex) in treating arthritis.
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Helps Relieves Pain
Frankincense oil has analgesic properties, which means it can help relieve pain. It’s been found that it is also effective in helping reduce pain and inflammation.
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Helps Boosts Immunity
Frankincense oil has been shown to boost immunity by increasing the production of white blood cells. Another benefit is it can help increase the production of natural killer cells, which are a type of white blood cell that helps fight infection.
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Helps Heals Wounds
Frankincense oil has antiseptic and astringent properties, which means it can help heal wounds. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that frankincense oil was effective in healing burns and cuts.
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Helps Reduces Stress
Frankincense oil has calming and relaxing properties, which make it an effective natural remedy for stress and anxiety. One study even showed that methods such as inhaling and massaging with frankincense oil reduced anxiety of mothers who are in labor.
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Helps Lighten Scars
Frankincense oil is used to help lighten scars. People who used a lotion containing frankincense oil for eight weeks had a significant reduction in the appearance of scarring.
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Helps Relieve Asthma Symptoms
Frankincense is the chosen essential oil for cough and asthma. People with asthma who inhaled frankincense oil had a significant reduction in the severity of their symptoms.
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Helps Soothe Indigestion
Frankincense oil can help to soothe indigestion. Those suffering from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) who use frankincense oil may notice a significant reduction in symptoms like bloating, gas, and stomach pain.
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Helps Promote Cellular Function
Frankincense oil has been shown to promote cellular function. In one study, frankincense oil was found to selectively kill cancer cells while leaving healthy cells unharmed.
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Helps Ease Arthritis
Frankincense oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it effective when providing relief from pain and discomfort caused by arthritis.
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Helps Treat Crohn's Disease
Frankincense oil may be effective in helping aid Crohn's disease. People with Crohn's disease can notice a reduction in symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue.
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Helps Treat Ulcerative Colitis
Ulcerative colitis is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that causes long-lasting inflammation and ulcers (sores) in the lining of the colon and rectum. Ulcerative colitis affects the large intestine, also known as the colon, and the rectum.
The symptoms of ulcerative colitis can vary from mild to severe. Some people may only have a few episodes of diarrhea, while others may experience persistent bleeding from the rectum or bloody stools. Symptoms may also include abdominal pain, weight loss, and fatigue. Those who use frankincense oil may notice a significant reduction in symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue.
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Helps Relieve Menstrual Cramps
Frankincense oil has anti-inflammatory properties, which may make it effective in helping provide relief from menstrual cramps.
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Helps Regulate High Blood Pressure
Frankincense oil may help to lower blood pressure. People with high blood pressure who apply frankincense oil have noticed reduction in systolic blood pressure.
How Do Essential Oils Works?
Essential oils are natural, concentrated extracts from plants. These extracts contain the plant's scent and flavor, or "essence." Essential oils are used for a variety of purposes, including aromatherapy, skincare, and digestion.
When applied topically, it is absorbed into the skin and enters the blood system, providing the body with many of frankincense oil’s benefits.
Safety and Side Effects of Using Frankincense Oil Topically
When used topically, frankincense oil use is safe for most users. However, there are potential side effects you should take note of.
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Skin irritation
Frankincense oil can irritate skin of those who are sensitive to essential oils. If you experience any irritation, discontinue use and consult your doctor.
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Allergic reactions
Some people may be allergic to frankincense oil without knowing it. If you see signs of an allergic reaction such as itching or swelling, stop using it immediately and consult with your doctor.
Who Can Use Frankincense Oil?
Many people can benefit from the use of frankincense oil. Some people should steer clear or exercise caution when using it.
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Children
Children below 6 should not be allowed to use frankincense oil.
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Pregnant women
Pregnant women or those looking to get pregnant should avoid using frankincense oil.
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Breastfeeding women
There are not enough studies to show if frankincense oil has an effect on breastmilk, so breastfeeding mothers should exercise caution when using it.
How Do I Use Frankincense Oil?
Frankincense oil can be used in a variety of ways.
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Topically
Frankincense oil can be applied to the skin. However, it should be diluted before doing so. Carrier oils such as virgin coconut oil or castor oil are good options. Once diluted, it can then be applied to the affected area.
Diluted oil can also be used in massages to help relax the entire body and reduce the effects of stress.
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Aromatherapy
Frankincense oil is also popular in aromatherapy. Mix a few drops frankincense oil with water and add it to a diffuser or an oil burner.
Oleia carries high-quality frankincense oil that’s been mixed with a blend of premium oils including olive and moringa, making it safe and ready for use! Purchase frankincense oil today and experience its many benefits.