Essential oils are the liquid extracts of potentially beneficial plants. They
are becoming very popular as people use them widely for a variety of common conditions, and some research shows that they are helpful. The word “essential” is derived from the fact that the oils capture the plant’s scent and flavor, or “essence.” They are generally safe when used correctly–which means that they should always be diluted before applying them to the skin and never ingested. They are commonly used in aromatherapy.
One plant yields only a small amount of oil, so it takes lots of plants for enough oil to fill a small bottle with essential oils. Get this: it takes about 50 roses to create just one single drop of essential oil. That is why they are expensive, but they last a long time, so it’s wise to accumulate a collection of various essential oils over time. Since they are so potent, only a small amount should be used at a time, and they should be mixed with a carrier oil such as coconut, almond, or olive oil for direct application to the skin. These highly potent extracts have been found to provide many health benefits.
Some of the more common ones are Lavender, Tea Tree, Peppermint, Clove, Oregano, and Grapefruit. Any of them can be used by placing a few drops in your bath. Here we want to focus on Frankincense Oil, as we remind you that Frankincense was one of the gifts for the Baby Jesus by the Three Wise Men on that very first Christmas.
Frankincense oil comes from the resin of the Boswellia tree, which is native to the Middle East, Africa, and India and was used in ancient religious practices. For thousands of years it was revered for its medicinal properties, and now we finally have verification from science and modern research. We urge you to do your own research in this regard, and we will summarize just a few of those benefits for you.
Reduces inflammation, which is at the root of nearly all disease. Boswellic acids work with your immune system to reduce certain compounds that stimulate inflammation. It also soothes arthritis through its ability to regulate certain compounds in the immune system. One study showed that using frankincense significantly improved arthritic knee pain after just eight weeks of treatment. Other studies showed that frankincense combined with curcumin was more effective than a popular anti-inflammatory prescription for arthritis.
Fight cancer using frankincense oil! Studies find that boswellic acids prevent DNA from forming in cancer cells, which could stop or slow their growth. One test tube study found that frankincense specifically targeted bladder cancer cells and left normal cells unharmed. Other research showed its effectiveness against breast, prostate, colon, and skin cancers.
Animal tests show that frankincense can help improve short-term and long-term memory by preventing a deficiency of certain thyroid hormones linked to learning and memory disorders. Human research is needed, but these animal studies so far show promise.
Other benefits include easing of gut problems, asthma improvement, better gum health, skin improvement, male fertility improvement, and killing of bacteria. Since most makeup and other daily-use items are FULL of toxic chemicals that disrupt our hormones and are even linked to cancer, we can’t think of any reason not to try it!
How to Use Frankincense Oil
Mix with olive oil, six drops per ounce of olive oil, and apply as a face serum.
Sprinkle a few drops in a hot bath.
Add 2–3 drops to ½ ounce of carrier oil and use as a vapor rub on your chest.
Add to a diffuser to relieve asthma and cough.
Cautions. Always dilute frankincense oil in a carrier oil when applying to the skin. Never apply any full-strength essential oil directly to your skin, as it might result in a rash or upset stomach.
ENJOY!
Frankincense may also interact with blood-thinning medications, so be sure to consult your doctor before using. In cases of accidental ingestion of essential oils, call poison control (1-800-222-1222 in the U.S.). If essential oils come into contact with the eyes, rinse them thoroughly with water and contact a doctor.