Frankincense Incense Benefits

April 12, 2023

Frankincense resin is the O.G. of incense. Cherished since ancient times, this incredible incense is perfect for making your home smell warm and inviting. But that's not all. This unassuming little resin is making waves in the medical research field all over the world. Read on to get the low down on this ancient super substance and how frankincense incense benefits us today.

But Frankincense Isn't Still a Thing, Right?

Actually, it is.

The magic of frankincense was known as long ago as 3000 BCE but is known best today for its references in holy texts. But when it comes to incense in the modern West, frankincense is often left behind in favor of more fashionable scents, like Pina Colada or Banana-Berry Bonanza.

But we think it's time to bring this ancient resin back, because not only does it smell incredible, but it is steeped in history and has some incredibly powerful benefits too.

What makes Frankincense Incense So Special?

Frankincense is a resin that possesses many healing properties. Hundreds of different cultures, creeds, and religions have cultivated Frankincense for its incredible physical and spiritual offerings.

It is also one of history's go-to cleansers and it comes in many forms - some more natural than others. Frankincense essential oil is popular in aromatherapy and yoga settings, while other forms of incense, such as sticks and cones, are often found in religious and sacred environments.

What is Frankincense?

Olibanum, also known as Frankincense, is a natural aromatic resin produced by the tropical Boswellia Sacra tree. Boswellia trees are found in the Middle East, India, Pakistan and Somalia, but due to the decline of their species, Frankincense has become even more rare, and therefore more sacred and treasured.

The History of Frankincense

Many are familiar of the biblical story the three wise men, who bestowed upon a newborn baby Jesus three valuable gifts: gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These were the most valuable products in the Middle East at that time, and it's not difficult to see why.

Frankincense is a prominent part of the Arabian peninsula's history and culture. For thousands of years frankincense has been traded through this peninsula, making a popular substance in Arabian countries as well as Africa and the middle East.

Who Can Benefit from Frankincense?

Frankincense essential oil and incense can benefit everybody, although our ancestors primarily used it for healing and spirituality,

The resin contains anti-inflammatory Boswellic acids which has amazing benefits for the body, mind and soul. The acid, and the resin as a whole, are used as a form of medicine in many countries. For example, frankincense gum has proven effective as a cancer treatment, which is partially due to its incredible ability to reduce harmful inflammation and its potent activeness as a pain reliever.

As well as this, people throughout history have used frankincense to assist with recovery from other illnesses such as asthma, arthritis, and bowel disease. You can find these healing properties within frankincense itself as well as its incense. However, stick and cone incense is often created using toxic combustibles, fillers, and binders, so to get the best from your incense, always seek out a natural

solution.

What is Frankincense Incense?

"Of all the exotic aromas and experiences from my sojourn in Ethiopia, it's the frankincense I miss most." ~ Cathleen Falsani

Use of frankincense incense dates back to around 5000 years ago, during Antiquity. The first known users of frankincense as an incense were the Ancient Egyptians, who used frankincense as a cleanser in the mummification process to rid the body of unwanted energies.

As well as this, it was commonly used as an object of worship. The Egyptians sought the approval of their many gods and burned the resin to seek good fortune and praise.

The ladies of Ancient Egypt frequently wore the ash of burned frankincense incense around their neck for good fortune, as well as using it as eyeliner for cosmetic purposes.

From our ancient past to the modern day, people have used Frankincense incense for countless reasons.

Its magical mind and body healing benefits and its ability to bring about higher connections with the spiritual realms make frankincense a staple throughout history.

Today, frankincense incense and its benefits have been largely forgotten by the mainstream. However, to the few who do still use this beautiful-smelling botanical, it is a go-to home cleanser that deters negativity and invites powerful positive energy. Not to mention, it's an incredible home fragrance.

What Does Frankincense Incense Smell Like?

The perfume-like scent of frankincense incense was once the most sought-after scent around. It has a fresh, earthy pine scent is complemented by somewhat peppery and spicy elements. The kick of this aroma is then underscored by a subtle citrus note.

All together making for a wonderful home scent. Perfect for cold, wintery evenings and creating an environment of warmth and comfort.

How to Burn Frankincense Incense

There are several ways to burn frankincense incense. Of course, the market today is filled with sticks and cones, which can be sickly, overpowering and even toxic. Not to mention they contaminate the natural frankincense aroma with the smell of bamboo or wood powder.

Here, we break down our preferred way to burn Frankincense incense: using an oil warmer.

How to Burn Frankincense Incense Using an Oil Warmer

You will need:

Frankincense Incense
Oil Warmer
Tea Light Candle
Oil Warmer
Candle Lighter (the long type to protect your fingers!)

Time needed: 20 minutes.

Before you begin

Depending on the oil warmer you want to use, you may find you want to burn your incense in an open space with a window slightly open to allow airflow. The shorter your oil warmer, the quicker and more intensely your incense blend will burn. Opt for a taller warmer if you are sensitive to strong fragrances or want a more subtle aroma.

Fill the warmer
Pour your incense into the top of the oil warmer.
Time for the fuel
Carefully place your tea light candle in the chamber.
Light up
Light your candle using a candle lighter and enjoy the healing frankincense aroma.
Stay safe
Monitor your oil warmer closely during use, ensuring you do not place flammable items nearby.
When you're finished
To extinguish, simply blow out the candle beneath your warmer and allow to cool before touching - they can get pretty hot!

Our Favourite 5 Frankincense Incense Benefits

Who knew such a natural and diverse substance existed? From spiritual to health, we truly believe this Incense is a must have for every home. Let's dive into our favourite 4.

1. Anti-Inflammatory

Modern Medicine

The boswellia tree has potent anti-inflammatory properties, which are also found in its extracts, whether it is in the form of resin or frankincense essential oil. Burning natural frankincense is one of the best ways to combat inflammation and illness through scent.

The healing compounds in frankincense release through the warming process and travel into your airways, destroying any inflammation in its path. This makes it the ultimate incense to burn for those suffering from asthma.

Ancient Medicine

In terms of more traditional healing methods, frankincense is a prominent feature in Ayurvedic medicine, and has been for thousands of years. Ayurveda is a Hindu system used in India and areas of Napal. Its principles involve using natural substances for medical healing.

However, Ayurvedic medicine has been known to be unsuccessful and, in some cases, deadly. But Frankincense is one of the more successful healers in this system thanks to its excellent side effect profile.

2. Anti-Cancer

Cancer is a terrible disease. And to claim that any one substance can have a positive effect on this deadly illness is a huge statement. But don't just take our work for it. There are countless studies supporting the claim that Frankincense exhibits anti-cancer cell properties.

These studies show that, not only can frankincense prevent the DNA of cancer cells forming, but it also helps prevent the spread and kill the harmful cells. Just a few types of cancer frankincense can be used as a therapeutic for include, bladder, bowel, breast, skin, prostate and pancreatic.

More research is urgently needed on this to determine once and for all whether frankincense essential oils and resins can be one of the tools modern doctors use to beat chronic illness.

3. Pain Relieving

Natural Frankincense incense is frequently used as a pain reliever in both western and eastern medicine. It helps reduce symptoms of migraines, arthritis, and injury pains and aches. Burning frankincense incense as described above can relieve these symptoms naturally, as well as relax the mind and spirit.

Natural, non-toxic frankincense incense also has a significant impact on leukotrienes, which are molecules in the body that are associated with inflammation and pain. This function can also help relieve allergy symptoms and reduce infections.

4. Improves Complexion

It doesn't stop at health. Frankincense's anti-inflammatory powers it come with more unique healing benefits. One being its ability to help skin imperfections such as wrinkles, acne, scars and rashes. Its ability to reduce inflammation helps reduce acne pimples and heal damaged skin cells.

Frankincense and frankincense incense have both been known to help skin health. Research would suggest some professionals recommend frankincense for skin diseases and skin cancer. It is always important to discuss options with your doctor first though.

We recommend burning natural frankincense incense into your environment for your skin as it is much cleaner and less harsh. Frankincense essential oils are also a good alternative, as they can be moisturising, and great for rough or wrinkled skin.

5. Reduces Stress

Most incense is associated with stress relief; however, frankincense may be up there with the best. It has been scientifically proven to reduce stress, which is such an important aspect of maintaining balance in our modern world.

With a high-quality frankincense incense, you can nurture a feeling of cleansed relaxation in your home. However, be certain you avoid sticks or cones made from toxic binders and fillers. There substances create thick, harsh smoke which takes away from the natural calming properties of pure frankincense essential oil and resin.

Amazing for studying, work or general stress, frankincense incense comes with a warm, soothing aroma - perfect for easing your mind after a long day. It can also help ease tension on and around your head and neck as well as leaving your environment feeling cosy and safe.

It is a fantastic negativity drainer and promotes vibrant positivity and wellness.

Other Benefits of Frankincense and Frankincense Incense

Frankincense has so many beneficial properties, we couldn't realistically keep the list at just 5. So here are four more we reasons we love frankincense.

Other Benefits

Oral Hygiene

Frankincense extract are understood to be a fantastic solution for oral health. Boswellic acids have excellent antimicrobial properties, which can help prevent oral infections, disease and erosion in the mouth.

Dental experts have even created oral products such as frankincense gum, toothpaste and mouthwash!

Helps Improve Gut Health

Frankincense is thought to be a brilliant gut healer. This is again because of its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to fight Leukotrienes. If this is proven by scientific research in the future, it would make frankincense extracts a fantastic solution for abdominal bloating, discomfort and pains.

Natural products derived from frankincense extracts that may help with gut issues include herbal teas, boswellia carterii or boswellia serrata tablets and they are all gaining popularity.

Burning natural frankincense incense is also an option as its antioxidant compounds still enter the body but through the lungs rather than the gut. It is important to discuss options with medical professionals beforehand as frankincense aiding gut health is still an unproven theory.

Improves Sleep

For people struggling with insomnia or their general sleep routine is a little off, burning natural frankincense oil or incense in your sleep environment can help create a positive and restful atmosphere before you go to sleep.

It is renowned for its ability to calm thoughts and allow the body to relax into sleep. The warm and calming scent of frankincense also promotes relaxation and comfort.

Spiritual Benefits

Frankincense for use as incense has been cultivated for thousands of years. This is because of its incredible ability to open chakras and enable connections with the higher conscious.

To this day, people all over the world belonging to many different religions and belief systems still burn frankincense to cleanse their place of worship. It is seen to eliminate negative energies, draw in positivity, and foster safety and peace.

Side Effects Of Frankincense

In most cases, Frankincense is extremely safe with little to no effects, but it is important you are aware of potential effects.

However, be sure to cease use of frankincense incense immediately if you experience respiratory issues or nausea.

In addition, you should avoid using frankincense oils or incense if you are pregnant or conceiving, using anti-inflammatory medication, or taking blood thinning medication because frankincense has been known to impact these drugs on rare occasions.

The Final Word

We believe using frankincense is an excellent tool for many reasons. Burning frankincense incense has fantastic health benefits and can even offer pain relief.

Additionally, it keeps your home cleansed and smelling beautiful. And that's why we burn Frankincense incense regularly throughout our home.

However, it is so important to seek natural, non-toxic frankincense incense solutions. That way, you can get the best of the experience, safe in the knowledge that you are honouring an ancient practice safely and effectively.

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