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Uncovering the Mysteries: What Were the Ancient Uses of Frankincense? 🌿



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I am super excited about this post because I absolutely loooove the smell of Frankincense! I want to jump right into the history of such an amazing smell and also showcase some of its many uses today.✨

For more information, please check the links below, which contain a list of all my sources, Happy Exploring! 🧡


History of Frankincense Oil

Frankincense essential oil is extracted from the Frankincense tree, specifically from the milky white sap it produces. In various cultures like Indian and Arabian, frankincense oil is thought to promote good health and cleanse the body and living spaces.


In Ayurvedic medicine, Frankincense is known as “dhoop” and is utilized for healing wounds, alleviating inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, and purifying indoor air.


In ancient times, the value of frankincense resin exceeded that of gold and was utilized in North Africa, the Middle East, and Egypt dating back to 3000 BCE. It is said that Hippocrates employed frankincense resin for various purposes, including treating toothaches, wounds, and digestive issues.


It is important to differentiate between frankincense resin and frankincense oil, although some of their components are known to offer similar benefits today.


Frankincense, with its woodsy and sweet aroma, has been a valuable commodity for over 5,000 years. Nowadays, large quantities of it are traded annually for various purposes, including its use by Catholic priests for incense in thuribles, as well as by perfume makers, producers of natural medicines, and essential oils for potential health benefits when inhaled or applied topically.


The majority of frankincense is sourced from approximately five types of Boswellia trees, which are predominantly located in North Africa and India, as well as in Oman, Yemen, and western Africa. These trees have a rugged and twisted appearance, resembling a miniature desert tree. To obtain frankincense, workers cut into the tree trunks and extract the dripping sap, which solidifies into resin.


Boswellia Tree



Frankincense offers numerous potential uses and benefits, such as:


  • Skin health: Frankincense oil can help with inflammation and pain, and may protect against UV radiation-related aging. It can also help reduce the appearance of uneven skin tone and blemishes. 

  • Respiratory health: Frankincense can help with asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis, and other lung issues. 

  • Anti-inflammatory: Frankincense can help reduce inflammation and pain, and may be effective in treating inflammatory conditions like arthritis. 

  • Cognitive performance: Frankincense oil may help improve memory and learning functions. 

  • Mood: Frankincense can help lift your mood and encourage relaxation and emotional well-being. 

  • Digestion: Frankincense may help support better digestion. 

  • Oral health: Frankincense essential oil may be effective for oral health. 

  • Cancer: Early studies suggest that frankincense could contain anticancer properties. 

  • Hormones: Frankincense oil may help balance hormone levels and reduce symptoms associated with menstruation and menopause. 

  • Deodorizing: Frankincense can help deodorize and refresh the air. 


Frankincense is also commonly used as a fragrance in soaps, lotions, and perfumes. 


Safety for Frankincense Oil


Frankincense, similar to other essential oils, possesses great potency. Properly diluting frankincense with a carrier oil before skin application is crucial. Before applying any essential oil to your skin, it is crucial to conduct a patch test to prevent any adverse reactions. Even though essential oils are gentle, they are concentrated extracts that should never be applied directly to the skin.


Essential oils vary in their properties, but a general guideline is to dilute them at a rate of 3% for adults and 2% for individuals who are elderly or unwell. Additionally, frankincense oil offers the advantage of being suitable for all skin types.


It is not recommended for pregnant women in their first sixteen weeks to use frankincense oil. Frankincense may interact with some prescription drugs, such as immunosuppressants and statins. Furthermore, it is important to avoid applying the oil near the eyes, as it may cause irritation to the eyes and the surrounding area.


Did You Know?

Frankincense has been a highly prized commodity since the beginning of written history, and was once worth more than gold!


Thank you all once again for tuning in. Your support and presence mean the world to me as we embark on this incredible journey together. I am grateful for each and every one of you who has joined me. I look forward to the next chapter and hope to see you all soon, as we continue to explore, learn, and grow together.đź’–


Eve🌻



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