7 Remarkable Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil

For over 5,000 years, frankincense has been treasured as one of the most precious substances on Earth. Once worth more than gold, this sacred resin was offered to kings and burned in temples across ancient civilizations. Today, science is revealing why our ancestors valued it so highly.

What is Frankincense?

Frankincense is a resin harvested from the Boswellia tree, primarily found in the Arabian Peninsula, Northeast Africa, and India. When the bark is cut, it "weeps" a milky sap that hardens into the tear-shaped resin we know as frankincense.

The essential oil is steam-distilled from this resin, capturing its complex aromatic compounds. The result is a warm, woody, slightly spicy scent with balsamic undertones that has captivated humanity for millennia.

Types of Frankincense

Species	Origin	Characteristics
Boswellia carterii	Somalia, Ethiopia	Most common, sweet and citrusy notes
Boswellia sacra	Oman, Yemen	Considered finest quality, complex aroma
Boswellia serrata	India	Often used in supplements, earthy scent
Boswellia frereana	Somalia	Rare "King of Frankincense," pure citrus top notes

7 Remarkable Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil

1. Supports Meditation and Spiritual Practice

There's a reason frankincense has been burned in temples, churches, and sacred spaces for thousands of years. Its aroma has a profound effect on the mind, promoting deep breathing, mental clarity, and a sense of inner peace.

Research suggests frankincense contains compounds that may affect areas of the brain associated with emotions and consciousness. Many practitioners report that diffusing frankincense during meditation helps them achieve deeper states of awareness more easily.

2. Promotes Youthful, Radiant Skin

Frankincense is a powerhouse for skincare. It's known to:

• Support healthy cell regeneration
• Help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
• Even out skin tone and texture
• Promote a natural, healthy glow
• Soothe dry or irritated skin

Ancient Egyptians used frankincense in their rejuvenating face masks. Modern research confirms what they discovered empirically - frankincense has remarkable skin-supporting properties.

3. Supports Healthy Inflammatory Response

Boswellic acids, the active compounds in frankincense, have been extensively studied for their ability to support a healthy inflammatory response. This makes frankincense valuable for:

• Supporting joint comfort and flexibility
• Post-exercise recovery
• General physical wellbeing

Many people add a few drops of frankincense to a carrier oil for a soothing massage blend.

4. Enhances Respiratory Wellness

The ancient practice of burning frankincense wasn't just spiritual - it also supported respiratory health. When diffused, frankincense can help:

• Clear airways naturally
• Support easy breathing
• Create a clean, fresh atmosphere

During cold season, try diffusing frankincense with eucalyptus and lemon for comprehensive respiratory support.

5. Promotes Emotional Balance

Frankincense has a grounding, centering effect on emotions. It's particularly helpful for:

• Anxiety: Its calming aroma helps quiet racing thoughts
• Stress: Promotes relaxation without sedation
• Mood swings: Helps create emotional equilibrium
• Grief: Traditionally used in times of mourning for comfort

Unlike some calming oils that can make you drowsy, frankincense promotes a state of alert relaxation - calm but focused.

6. Supports Cellular Health

Modern research has focused significantly on frankincense's effects at the cellular level. Studies suggest that boswellic acids may support healthy cell function and normal cell life cycles. While research is ongoing, this is one of the most exciting areas of frankincense science.

7. Natural Oral Care Support

Frankincense has been used for oral health since ancient times. Its natural properties make it excellent for:

• Supporting healthy gums
• Freshening breath naturally
• Creating a clean oral environment

Add one drop of food-grade frankincense to your toothpaste, or look for natural toothpastes that include frankincense as an ingredient.

How to Use Frankincense Essential Oil

Diffusion

The most common and safest method. Add 3-5 drops to your diffuser and run for 30-60 minutes. Frankincense blends beautifully with:

• Lavender: For deep relaxation
• Orange: For uplifting yet grounded mood
• Sandalwood: For meditation
• Myrrh: Traditional sacred blend
• Cedarwood: For grounding

Topical Application

Always dilute before applying to skin:

Application	Dilution	How to Use
Face serum	0.5-1%	1-2 drops per tablespoon carrier oil
Body massage	2-3%	6-9 drops per tablespoon carrier oil
Joint support	3-5%	9-15 drops per tablespoon carrier oil

Internal Use

Frankincense DIY Recipes

Anti-Aging Face Serum

Ingredients:
- 1 oz (30ml) rosehip seed oil
- 1 oz (30ml) jojoba oil
- 8 drops frankincense
- 6 drops lavender
- 4 drops geranium

Instructions:
Mix in dark glass bottle. Apply 3-4 drops
to clean face morning and night.

Meditation Diffuser Blend

- 3 drops frankincense
- 2 drops sandalwood
- 1 drop myrrh
- 1 drop cedarwood

Perfect for yoga, meditation, or quiet reflection.

Joint Comfort Massage Oil

Ingredients:
- 2 oz (60ml) fractionated coconut oil
- 15 drops frankincense
- 10 drops peppermint
- 8 drops eucalyptus

Massage into areas of discomfort as needed.

The History of Frankincense

Ancient Trade Routes

The frankincense trade was one of the most lucrative in ancient history. The "Incense Route" stretched over 2,000 kilometers from southern Arabia to the Mediterranean, making kingdoms wealthy beyond imagination.

Sacred Significance

Frankincense appears in the world's major religious traditions:

• Christianity: One of the three gifts of the Magi
• Judaism: Used in temple incense (Ketoret)
• Islam: Traditionally used for purification
• Hinduism: Used in religious ceremonies
• Buddhism: Burned during meditation

Modern Rediscovery

After centuries of being primarily ceremonial, frankincense is experiencing a renaissance. Scientific research is validating ancient wisdom, and a new generation is discovering its profound benefits.

Choosing Quality Frankincense

What to Look For

• Species identified: Should state Boswellia species
• Origin specified: Quality varies by region
• Steam distilled: Best extraction method
• GC/MS tested: Verifies purity and composition
• Proper packaging: Dark glass, airtight seal

Red Flags

• Very low price (quality frankincense is not cheap)
• No botanical name listed
• "Fragrance oil" or "nature identical"
• Clear or plastic bottles
• No batch testing available

BEWIT Frankincense

BEWIT sources premium Boswellia carterii and Boswellia sacra from trusted suppliers. Each batch undergoes comprehensive 3D laboratory analysis ensuring:

• 100% pure, undiluted oil
• Optimal boswellic acid content
• No synthetic additives
• Full traceability from source to bottle

Safety Considerations

• Generally considered one of the safest essential oils
• Always dilute for topical use
• Patch test before first use
• Consult healthcare provider if pregnant or nursing
• Keep away from eyes and mucous membranes
• Store in cool, dark place

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is frankincense so expensive?

Frankincense trees take 8-10 years to mature before they can be tapped. Harvesting is labor-intensive and done by hand. The best quality resins come from specific regions with limited supply. Additionally, it takes significant amounts of resin to produce a small amount of essential oil. Quality frankincense is an investment, but a little goes a long way.

Can I apply frankincense directly to skin?

While frankincense is gentler than many essential oils, we always recommend dilution. For facial use, a 0.5-1% dilution is ideal. Some people do use it "neat" (undiluted) on small areas, but this increases the risk of sensitization over time.

What's the difference between frankincense and myrrh?

Both are tree resins with ancient sacred significance, but they come from different trees and have distinct properties. Frankincense (Boswellia) is lighter, more uplifting, and traditionally associated with the divine. Myrrh (Commiphora) is deeper, more grounding, and traditionally associated with healing and mortality. They're often used together.

How long does frankincense essential oil last?

Properly stored (cool, dark, tightly sealed), frankincense can last 4-6 years or more. Its high resin content makes it more stable than citrus oils. You may notice the scent deepening and becoming richer with age, similar to fine wine.