Essential oils have been used for thousands of years for their therapeutic and healing properties. These oils are extracted from roots, stems, or leaves of plants which are known for their health benefits. Frankincense is a common essential oil which can provide a variety of health benefits including improving skin health.
Immune System Benefits
The potential skin benefits of frankincense oil begin with its anti-microbial activity. A 2003 Egyptian study concluded that thanks to many of its terpenes, frankincense oil exhibits “strong immunostimulant activity.” Thus, it is thought to reduce acne.
Anti-aging Benefits
Frankincense oil also appears to improve skin tone, elasticity, and reduce the appearance of blemishes. It may also be helpful in fading of stretch marks or surgical scars and for healing dry skin.
According to a 2013 review paper, frankincense oil reduces redness and skin irritation while also producing a more even skin tone. Research suggests a steroid-like terpene in frankincense provides this soothing effect on irritated skin.
Anti-inflammatory Effect
Frankincense also has anti-inflammatory properties. Studies show it blocks the production of leukotrienes, a key inflammatory chemical produced by the body’s cells in response to infection or injury. Thus, frankincense may help to reduce the symptoms of arthritis and sore muscles.
Anti-anxiety and Anti-depressant Effects
Anxiety and depression are two of the most common forms of psychiatric disorders in the United States. A 2008 animal study showed that inhaling frankincense oil can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Additionally, there appears to be a lower incidence of treatment-limiting side effects than may be present with prescription medications.
Safety
Frankincense has not been shown to demonstrate any serious side effects and is considered safe. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration even permits the use of frankincense oil as a food additive. However, seldomly, frankincense oil may cause minor skin irritation. Therefore, in some cases, it may be helpful to discuss the use of frankincense with your health care provider first.
Final Thoughts
A hot soak in a frankincense oil bath can reduce joint pain and inflammation. If there’s no time for a bath soak, try massaging a frankincense salve into sore muscles. You can also enjoy the scar-reducing and wound-healing benefits of frankincense by applying this oil to your skin. Additionally, frankincense can be used to gently repel bacteria commonly found on the skin.
This powerful essential oil has been revered for centuries for its ability to beautify and rejuvenate skin when applied topically. But more recently, frankincense has also been appreciated for its ability to reduce inflammation and promote cellular health and immunity.
References:
Mikhaeil B et al; Chemistry and immunomodulatory activity of frankincense oil; Journal of Biosciences; Mar-Apr 2003; 58(3-4): 230 – 238.
Hamidpour R et al; Frankincense (Boswellia Species): From the Selection of Traditional Applications to the Novel Phytotherapy for the Prevention and Treatment of Serious Diseases; Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine; 2013 Oct-Dec; 3(4): 221–226.
Moussaieff A et al; Incensole acetate, an incense component, elicits psychoactivity by activating TRPV3 channels in the brain; The Journal of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology; 2008 Aug; 22(8): 3024 – 3034.
This content is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to take the place of medical advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers of this content should consult their physician or qualified healthcare professional regarding specific health questions, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications. CannaGlobe, LLC does not take responsibility for possible health consequences of any person reading and/or following this informational content.
