Frankincense is an aromatic resin that has been used for 5,000 years for its medicinal and fragrant properties. Sometimes known as one of the gifts the Magi brought to Jesus, frankincense was used in religious and spiritual rituals all over the world. Now a popular ingredient in skin care, frankincense has a warm, woodsy and spicy aroma that grounds and calms the mind.
Frankincense in traditional Chinese medicine
In traditional Chinese medicine, frankincense is known as Ru Xiang and is considered to be acrid, bitter in flavour and warm in nature. It is believed to enter the heart, liver and spleen channels. It is thought to invigorate the blood, promote the movement of Qi, and stop the pain.
The symbol of frankincense
Used in religious and spiritual rituals for thousands of years, frankincense is a symbol of holiness and righteousness. Because it is so fragrant when burnt, it was used by ancient people as a religious offering. In Christian symbolism, frankincense can represent Christ’s sacrifice.
In magical traditions, frankincense is associated with the element fire, the Sun, and is thought to be masculine in nature. In ancient Egypt, frankincense was burnt to honour Ra and Baal. Frankincense is thought to have strong vibrations that drive away negative energies when burned and is therefore very useful in spiritual rituals and meditation.
Air Freshener
Freshen up your bedroom, office space, and other areas with Frankincense essential oils. Nonetheless, Frankincense offers an earthy and uplifting aroma to any room!
Room Sanitizer
Along with granting a fresh aroma, it also acts a room sanitizer thanks to its antiseptic properties. Use as a natural household cleaner or diffuse in any room to help eliminate bacteria and pollutants.
Skin Moisturizer
Whether combatting against dry hands or razor bumps, Frankincense can moisturize, soothe, and rejuvenate skin. Add a few drops of the oil to your lotion, moisturizer, and shaving gel and apply or simply massage into the skin.
Stress Reliever
Stressed? Calm your anxiety and nerves by diffusing a few drops of Frankincense. And to promote even greater tranquillity, simultaneously diffuse the oil and practice your yoga poses and asanas.
Sleep Inducer
Though we don’t completely understand why this oil seems to promote relaxation and sleep. The effect may be due to the aromatherapy benefits. This is especially relevant to the rising number of disorders related to stress and sleep.
Oral Health Promoter
The astringent and antiseptic properties of Frankincense make it beneficial for oral health, as it can be used in a homemade toothpaste or mouthwash to naturally reduce bad bacteria in the mouth. The oil may also alleviate mouth sores and toothaches.
Improves Memory
Research suggests that frankincense oil can be used to improve memory and learning functions. And some animal studies even show that using frankincense during pregnancy may increase the memory of a mother’s offspring. In one such study, when pregnant rats received frankincense orally during their gestation period, there was a significant increase in the power of learning, short-term memory and long-term memory of their offspring.