What is Frankincense Essential Oil for
Frankincense essential oil is used to treat wounds, care for hair, skin, among other uses.
Edited and resized image by Kelly Sikkema is available on Unsplash
Frankincense essential oil , also called frankincense essential oil , is extracted from the resin of trees of the genus . boswellia. It is used for spiritual, aromatherapy, medicinal and cosmetic purposes.
In Asia, frankincense was traditionally used as an antimicrobial and "blood cleanser". In the West, it is mainly used in skin and hair care. Some people even claim that it can be used as a form of treatment for cancer or inflammatory diseases, but these claims should be approached with caution due to a lack of evidence.
Frankincense was originally and religiously used as incense. In aromatherapy, it can be inhaled using a diffuser or applied to the skin dissolved in carrier oil, such as coconut oil, grape seed oil, sesame oil, among others.
Stop what the frankincense essential oil is for
Anti-inflammatory
Historically, frankincense essential oil was most often used as a remedy for inflammation. A review of studies has shown that this use is really effective, especially for inflammation and pain.
Another study suggested that frankincense essential oil may be helpful for arthritis, although research has been done on animals. In alternative medicine it is recommended for osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
To use it, dilute it in the proportion of one drop of frankincense essential oil and apply to the skin to relieve pain and inflammation. Do not drink frankincense essential oil.
Antimicrobial
One of the oldest uses of frankincense is as a wound healer. One study has shown it to be effective in treating wounds for its antimicrobial properties. Frankincense essential oil can kill bacteria and other microorganisms that cause infection or disease.
To use it, dilute it in a carrier oil in the proportion of one drop of essential oil to one tablespoon of carrier oil, such as coconut oil, sweet almond oil, among others.
If your infection gets worse, get medical help.
good for the heart
Research suggests that frankincense may have cardioprotective benefits by lowering the level of fat in the blood and working as an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant. In the long term, it can help reduce the risk of heart disease, although more studies are needed.
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To use it, apply topically at the rate of one to three drops of frankincense essential oil in one tablespoon of carrier oil. Apply to areas such as the neck or wrists daily.
is liver ally
Frankincense's antioxidant benefits for the heart are also true for the liver. One study showed that the antioxidant effects of frankincense essential oil could help protect liver cells. Another study concluded that frankincense is effective against hepatitis and liver fibrosis as it acts as an anti-inflammatory. To use it, apply it topically at the rate of one drop of essential oil to one tablespoon of carrier oil. Apply to neck or wrist areas daily.
Frankincense Oil Side Effects
Frankincense essential oil is safe if used correctly.
If you are using frankincense essential oil use it only topically or diffused in the air as a form of aromatherapy. Ingesting frankincense essential oil poses uncertain and potentially adverse health risks. Some are toxic.
To enjoy the benefits of frankincense (such as heart or liver health), try a supplement or extract. As supplements are not regulated in the same way as prescription drugs, it is best to talk about seeking medical help from reliable sources of supplements.
The internal use of frankincense is different from essential oil. Do not ingest essential oils.- What are essential oils?
When diluted with a carrier oil, topical use of frankincense essential oil poses little or no health risk. Never apply undiluted essential oils to the skin. This can cause burns, inflammation or unwanted skin reactions.
Discontinue use of any frankincense product (and seek medical help) if you experience any or all of the following side effects:
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- acid reflux
- Skin reactions (when used topically)
Adverse Effects and Allergy
Topical use, even when diluted in oil, presents its own minor risks, such as allergic reactions or rashes. Test a small area of skin for the diluted essential oil before using it for any health purpose to avoid side effects and ensure you are not allergic.
Drug interactions are possible. Be sure to discuss the medications you take with your doctor before using frankincense essential oil.
Use of Frankincense Essential Oil to Treat Cancer
One study has shown that frankincense essential oil can help slow and inhibit the growth of cancer cells. However, this study was performed on cells outside the human body in a laboratory setting.
Another study found that frankincense helps to treat inflammation and pain caused by cancer radiation therapy.
A third study also suggested that frankincense can induce kill cancer cells. As an antioxidant, frankincense essential oil may play a small role in reducing long-term cancer risk if used daily.
