Frankincense oil, derived from the resin of the Boswellia tree, has been used for centuries due to its various health benefits. It's known for its comforting properties, often used to help reduce stress reactions and negative emotions.
In skincare, frankincense oil is believed to help reduce the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, scars, and stretch marks. Additionally, it's used in aromatherapy for promoting relaxation and sleep. It also has potential anti-inflammatory and anti-septic properties, making it useful for joint pain and wound healing. Moreover, it's used in religious ceremonies and traditional rituals for its believed spiritual benefits.
Method of Extraction
Frankincense oil is typically extracted through a process known as steam distillation. Here is a simplified 6 step outline of the process:
Raw Material: The raw material, in this case, frankincense resin, is collected. The resin is usually allowed to bleed out and harden for a few weeks before it is collected.
Distillation Chamber: The collected resin is placed into a distillation chamber.
Steam: Steam is then introduced into the chamber. The heat from the steam causes the frankincense resin to release its oil.
Condensation: The steam and oil vapor mixture is then passed through a condenser which cools the mixture down, converting it back into a liquid form.
Separation: The liquid is collected in a separator where the oil, being lighter than water, naturally separates and floats to the top. The oil is then skimmed off the top.
Collection: The separated oil is collected and stored appropriately.
This process ensures that the essential oil retains the aromatic and therapeutic properties of the plant.
Varieties of Frankincense Oil
Boswellia Serrata: This variety of frankincense oil is native to India. It's often used in Ayurvedic medicine for its potential benefits to the respiratory and nervous systems.
Boswellia Carterii: Originating from East Africa, this variety is often used for its potential calming, balancing, and centering effects. It is considered ideal for meditation and spiritual practices.
Boswellia Frereana: This type of frankincense oil is native to the northeastern regions of Africa, particularly Somalia. It's known for its potential anti-aging properties and is often used in cosmetic products.
Boswellia Sacra: This is the rarest and most sought-after variety of frankincense oil. It's native to the Arabian Peninsula, particularly Oman and Yemen. It's considered the highest quality frankincense and is often used for its potential therapeutic properties.
Boswellia Papyrifera: This variety is native to Ethiopia and Sudan. It's often used in traditional medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.
Boswellia Neglecta: Originating from Kenya and Ethiopia, this variety is often used for its potential calming and soothing properties. It's also used in perfumery for its unique scent.
Each variety of frankincense oil has a unique scent and potential therapeutic properties, making it versatile for use in various applications from aromatherapy to skincare.
Benefits of Frankincense Oil
Frankincense oil has a multitude of benefits for mental health, general well-being, inflammation and pain relief, and skincare. Here are just a few.
Reduces Stress and Negative Emotions: When inhaled, frankincense oil has been shown to reduce heart rate and high blood pressure. It has anti-anxiety and depression-reducing abilities.
Boosts Immune System: Frankincense oil is known for its powerful immune system boosting capabilities. It can help kill harmful germs and bacteria.
Fights Cancer: Some research indicates that frankincense oil can distinguish cancer cells from normal cells, killing only the cancerous ones.
Improves Memory: Frankincense oil is known to improve memory and learning functions.
Reduces Inflammation and Pain: It can inhibit the production of key inflammatory molecules, helping prevent the breakdown of the cartilage tissue.
Heals Skin: It is used to reduce acne blemishes, the appearance of large pores, prevent wrinkles, and it even helps lift and tighten skin.
Balances Hormone Levels: It can help decrease symptoms of menstruation and menopause by balancing hormone levels.
Improves Sleep: Frankincense oil immediately induces the feeling of peace, relaxation, and satisfaction, aiding in a good night's sleep.
Helps Digestion: It can help speed up the digestion of food, similar to digestive enzymes.
Acts as a Powerful Astringent: It helps protect skin cells and is used to help reduce acne, prevent wrinkles, and it even helps lift and tighten skin to naturally slow
Frankincense Oil Recipes
Here are just a few recipes that include frankincense oil for health and well-being.
Frankincense Essential Oil Bath Bombs:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baking soda
- 1/2 cup citric acid
- 1/2 cup Epsom salt
- 1/2 cup cornstarch
- 3/4 tsp. water
- 2 tsp. essential oil (Frankincense)
- 2.5 tsp. almond oil or coconut oil
- A few drops of food coloring (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, mix together the dry ingredients.
- In a separate bowl, mix together the wet ingredients.
- Slowly add the wet ingredients to the dry ones, stirring constantly.
- Once everything is thoroughly mixed, tightly pack the mixture into a bath bomb mold and let it dry.
Frankincense Infused Honey:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of honey
- 5 drops of Frankincense oil
Instructions:
- Warm the honey slightly in a saucepan over low heat.
- Add the Frankincense oil and stir well.
- Pour the mixture into a jar and let it cool.
- Use this honey as a sweetener in tea, on toast, or in any other recipe that calls for honey.
Frankincense Skin Cream:
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup shea butter
- 1/4 cup coconut oil
- 1/4 cup jojoba oil
- 10 drops Frankincense essential oil
Instructions:
-Blend all ingredients together
-Allow frankincense oil to infused for a couple of hours
-Use on the body. Its best to apply after a warm bath to improve absorption.
Safe Use of Essential Oils
Essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts that have a variety ofuses,fromaromatherapy to skincare. However, they must be used safely to prevent any adverse reactions.
Firstly, essential oils should always be diluted before use. Applying them directly totheskincancause irritation or an allergic reaction. A common method of dilution is mixing them with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or almond oil.
Secondly, some essential oils are not safe for ingestion. Always check the label and consult with a healthcare professional before ingesting any essential oil.
Thirdly, essential oils should be stored out of reach of children and pets. Some oils can be toxic if ingested in large quantities.
Lastly, certain essential oils can interact with medications or have adverse effects on certainmedical conditions. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new essential oil regimen.
Remember, just because something is natural does not mean it is safe for everyone. Always use essential oils responsibly and in moderation.
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