Frankincense is an ancient fragrant resin derived from Boswellia trees found in the mountainous regions of Africa and the Middle East. These remarkable trees can grow in unforgiving conditions, even solid rock.
For centuries, frankincense has been valued for its therapeutic properties. In the olden days, it symbolized wealth and spirituality, making it a suitable gift for royalty. From ancient times until the present, this aromatic substance has played a significant role in traditional medicine, religious rites, perfumery, and aromatherapy across diverse cultures. It has a soothing, sweet, and woody aroma that can calm your senses and brighten your mood.
How is Frankincense Extracted?
Extracting frankincense called “tapping” is a time-honored tradition. “Tappers” carefully cut the bark of the Boswellia tree to allow the milky white sap to ooze out, ensuring that they don’t damage the tree.
The sap droplets are left on the tree for several days to dry and solidify into tear-like shapes before being scraped off. These pure organic resins can be burned as incense or infused.
How to Burn Frankincense Resin at Home?
Materials needed:
Pick up the charcoal disc with your tongs and light the side with a match or lighter. Start burning the charcoal from the edge until you notice glows and sparks. Reminder: Burn the charcoal from a safe and well-ventilated area of your home.
What are the Benefits of Frankincense?
1. Eases Inflammation
According to WebMD, the compounds found in frankincense can prevent the body from releasing leukotrienes, which can cause inflammation. Frankincense is being used across the world to treat the symptoms of arthritis, providing pain relief and improving mobility over time.
According to studies, the anti-inflammatory properties of frankincense support gut health and can be used as a natural treatment for Crohn’s Disease.
2. Reduces Anxiety and Depression
Burning frankincense resin or using it as essential oil is believed to promote relaxation, alleviate stress, elevate mood, and improve overall mental well-being. These effects can contribute to reduced anxiety and depressive symptoms.
3. Promotes Oral Health
Boswellic acid contained in frankincense has strong antibacterial properties that can improve oral health. It can be used to treat oral infections including bad breath, mouth sores, and toothaches.
4. Relieves Asthma
A study showed that 70% of research participants with asthma reported significant relief from symptoms like wheezing and shortness of breath after a month-and-a-half regimen of 300 milligrams of frankincense daily.
5. Promotes Cell Regeneration
Frankincense essential oils contain antioxidants, making them a valuable ingredient for skincare products designed to combat premature aging and promote cellular renewal.
Key Takeaways
The versatility of frankincense is evident, ranging from aromatherapy and skincare to addressing mental health concerns and physical ailments like asthma and inflammation. Frankincense has the power to enhance overall wellness.
