Seamus Hammond
Frankincense, also known as olibanum, is an aromatic resin used in incense and perfumes. It is obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia in the family Burseraceae. The English word frankincense is derived from the Old French expression franc encens, meaning 'true incense' or 'high-quality incense'. Frankincense has been used for thousands of years, with evidence of its use in Islamic, Chinese, and Indian medicine. It is also mentioned in the Bible as one of the gifts given by the Magi to Jesus. Today, frankincense is used in a variety of ways, including as incense, perfume, chewing gum, and essential oil for aromatherapy. Research suggests that frankincense may have medicinal properties, including anti-inflammatory effects and potential benefits in the treatment of cancer and osteoarthritis. However, more studies are needed to fully understand the effectiveness and safety of frankincense.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Definition | Dried chunks of sap from trees in the [Boswellia genus] |
| Other names | Olibanum, others |
| Etymology | From the Old French franc encens, meaning ' [true incense]'. |
| Species | Boswellia sacra, B. frereana, B. serrata, B. papyrifera, others |
| Origin | Native to Oman, Yemen, Somalia, others |
| Uses | Perfumes, incense, chewing gum, [aromatherapy], [medicinal], [anti-ageing], [anti-inflammatory], [anti-cancer], [anti-depressant], [anti-anxiety], [anti-nausea], [pain relief], [anti-microbial], [anti-arthritic], [anti-asthma], [anti-menopausal] |
| Side effects | [Skin irritation], [indigestion], [constipation], [nausea], [increased risk of miscarriage] |
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What You'll Learn
Frankincense is an aromatic resin
Frankincense has a long history of use in incense and perfumes, with the word "frankincense" derived from the Old French expression "franc encens," meaning "true incense" or "high-quality incense." It has also been used medicinally in Islamic, Chinese, and Indian medicine, and is believed to have various health benefits. For example, it has been studied for its potential in reducing inflammation and pain associated with osteoarthritis, and there is some evidence that it may have anti-aging effects by protecting against UV radiation from the sun. Additionally, frankincense has been researched for its possible benefits in treating cancer and asthma, as well as its potential in improving oral health by reducing microbes in the mouth.
The active ingredient in most frankincense varieties is boswellic acid, which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. However, Somali frankincense, or Boswellia frereana, is unique in that it does not contain boswellic acid. Instead, its main compound is epilupeol, which targets a protein called MMp-9 that is elevated in inflammatory-related diseases. By inhibiting this protein, epilupeol helps to suppress the body's pain and inflammation responses.
Today, frankincense is used in a variety of products, including soaps, lotions, perfumes, and aromatherapy. It can be taken orally as a supplement or used topically in creams and essential oils. While generally considered safe, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking frankincense, as the optimal dosage is not well understood and may vary depending on the individual and their specific condition.
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It is derived from trees in the Boswellia genus
Frankincense, also known as olibanum, is derived from trees in the Boswellia genus. Boswellia trees are native to Oman, Yemen, and Somalia. There are about 50 species of these trees, many of which grow in the Horn of Africa, with one species growing in the Middle East and another in India. The trees start producing resin when they are about eight to ten years old. The resin is harvested by tapping the trees two to three times per year, with the final taps producing the best quality tears due to their higher aromatic terpene, sesquiterpene, and diterpene content.
The Boswellia species that produce true frankincense include Boswellia sacra (syn. B. bhaw-dajiana, syn. B. carteri), B. frereana, B. serrata (B. thurifera), and B. papyrifera. Boswellia sacra is found in Somalia and Southern Arabia, while Boswellia frereana grows in northern Somalia. Boswellia occulta is another species found in Somalia, and for a long time, it was considered the same as Boswellia carteri despite their different shapes. However, in 2019, it was discovered that their essential oil compositions are distinct. Boswellia serrata is native to India, and Boswellia papyrifera is found in Ethiopia, Eritrea, and Sudan.
Frankincense has been used for thousands of years and is traditionally burned as incense. It is also used in perfumes, soaps, lotions, and aromatherapy. Additionally, it has been recognised for its potential health benefits, particularly its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Some studies suggest that frankincense may help with osteoarthritis pain and improve mobility. It has also been studied for its potential benefits in treating cancer and asthma, as well as its possible anti-aging effects. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness and safety of frankincense in these areas.
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Frankincense has been used for thousands of years
Historically, Southern Arabia was a major exporter of frankincense, with records of it being traded as far as ancient China. In Christian tradition, frankincense is one of the three gifts, along with gold and myrrh, presented to Jesus by the Biblical Magi, as described in the Gospel of Matthew. The substance also holds symbolic significance, with frankincense representing deity.
In terms of medicinal uses, frankincense has been recognised for its potential health benefits, particularly its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Modern research has explored the use of frankincense in treating osteoarthritis, with studies indicating that Boswellia extract can reduce inflammation, joint pain, and stiffness. Additionally, frankincense has been studied for its potential in cancer treatment, with boswellic acid showing potential in inhibiting the spread of cancer cells and reducing brain oedema in patients with brain tumours. However, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the effectiveness and optimal dosage of frankincense in various applications.
Frankincense is also used in aromatherapy and has been shown to potentially help with anxiety and depression in rats. It is believed to have a positive impact on oral health, as indicated by a study where participants chewed gum containing frankincense, resulting in reduced numbers of microbes in saliva samples. Additionally, frankincense is used in skincare products due to its potential anti-ageing effects, as it may protect against UV radiation-related skin ageing.
Today, frankincense is predominantly produced in the Horn of Africa, specifically in the border communities of Somalia and Ethiopia, and is used in various forms, including incense, perfumes, essential oils, and chewing gum.
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It has been used in medicines and perfumes
Frankincense, also known as olibanum, is an aromatic resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia in the family Burseraceae. It has been used for thousands of years, with evidence of its use in ancient India and China. Frankincense is produced by puncturing the Boswellia tree with a chisel-like tool, causing a milky white sap to leak out and harden into dried chunks.
Frankincense has been traditionally used in medicines, particularly in Islamic, Chinese, and Indian medicine. It is believed to possess anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, with some studies suggesting that it may be effective in reducing osteoarthritis pain and improving mobility. Frankincense has also been found to decrease oral microbes, potentially reducing sources of infection in the mouth. Additionally, it is thought to have anti-cancer properties, as boswellic acids may prevent cancer cell growth.
The use of frankincense in perfumes is also notable, with many people appreciating its fragrance. It is one of the more than 90 types of essential oils used in aromatherapy and can be inhaled or diluted and applied to the skin. Frankincense is also used in skincare and other cosmetic products, such as soaps and lotions.
While frankincense is generally considered safe, it is important to consult a healthcare professional before using it as a supplement. Some side effects have been reported, including indigestion, constipation, and nausea. Additionally, there are concerns about the potential risk of miscarriage associated with frankincense use during pregnancy. More research is needed to fully understand the effects and appropriate dosage of frankincense.
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Frankincense is considered safe but should be used with caution
Frankincense is a natural ingredient that comes from a tree. It has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine and has been valued for its anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and antibacterial properties.
Frankincense is generally considered safe, with a long history of use as an incense, pain reliever, and skin elixir. It is also used in soaps, lotions, perfumes, and aromatherapy. However, it is important to use it with caution. While it does not have significant side effects, skin irritation, rashes, and itching have been reported in rare cases. To test for skin sensitivity, it is recommended to apply a small amount of frankincense diluted with a carrier oil to a small patch of skin and observe for any reactions over several days.
When ingested, frankincense has the potential to interfere with certain medications, such as immunosuppressants and statins. It is advised to consult a healthcare professional before taking frankincense internally, especially for those who are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor's care.
Additionally, while frankincense has been praised for multiple health benefits, not all are supported by scientific research. Studies on its effectiveness in treating various health conditions are still ongoing, and more research is needed, especially in humans.
Frankincense is typically used in essential oil form, which can be applied topically, ingested, or used in aromatherapy. It is recommended to dilute frankincense essential oil with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin and to avoid ingesting it.
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Frequently asked questions
Frankincense is dried chunks of sap from trees in the Boswellia genus. It is burned as incense and is thought to have several medicinal properties.
Frankincense has been used for thousands of years in Islamic, Chinese, and Indian medicine. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties and may help in the treatment of cancer. It is also used to reduce osteoarthritis pain and improve mobility.
Frankincense can be used in several ways, including as an oral supplement in a capsule or tablet, in topical creams, and as an essential oil for aromatherapy or topical use.
Frankincense is generally safe, but it is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking it as a supplement. Side effects reported in scientific studies include indigestion, constipation, and nausea. It may also increase the risk of miscarriage, so it is recommended that pregnant people avoid it.
