The 4 Types of Frankincense Oil. Which One’s For You?

I write so you share. Thank you.

As a certified skincare formulator, I’ve seen countless trendy ingredients come and go. Remember the aloe vera craze of 2012? Or the coconut oil obsession from 2012-14? How about chia seeds (2013-15), activated charcoal (2016-17), and turmeric (2017-18)? I bet you’re smiling, thinking about how you might have jumped on one (or all) of these bandwagons! 🙂

But frankincense? This aromatic powerhouse peaked around 2015-17, and guess what… It’s still going strong. Unlike some fleeting trends, frankincense has maintained a devoted—dare I say fervent—following.

Every time I post about frankincense essential oil on social media, it’s like I’ve rung a dinner bell. People flock to learn more, hungry for information about this ancient oil. There’s just something magical about it. I feel the pull too, which is why I’m excited to share a little secret with you:

There isn’t just one type of frankincense oil. There are four distinct varieties, each with its own unique properties and benefits.

Now, you might be wondering, “Do I really need to know about all four types?” Well, let me ask you this:

• Have you ever been disappointed that your home doesn’t smell as amazing as you’d hoped, despite using frankincense?
• Are you curious why some frankincense oils cost significantly more than others?
• Have you used frankincense on your skin without seeing the “miracle” results your friend raves about?
• Does your frankincense smell different from the one at your yoga (or pilates) class?
• Are you into DIY skincare and want to create products that work exactly as intended?
• Do you keep buying frankincense but can’t shake the feeling that you’re missing out on something?
• Are you tired of guessing which frankincense to use for relaxation versus focus?

If you answered “yes” to any of these questions (or if you’re simply curious like me), then knowing about the four types of frankincense oil could be a game-changer for you.

Ready to become a frankincense aficionada?

From ancient rituals to your instagram feed: the frankincense journey

Time for a quick history lesson (I promise it’ll be quick, but I can’t leave this out!).

Frankincense isn’t just another essential oil riding the trend wave—it’s steeped in history. We’re talking ancient history.

Picture this: Ancient Egypt, 4000 BC. The air is thick with the sweet, woody aroma of frankincense. But the Egyptians weren’t just burning it to make their homes smell divine. Oh no, they were using it in sacred rituals and even in the mummification process.

Fast forward to today, and frankincense has made quite the comeback. It’s now a standout in the mature-skin world, thanks to its power in minimising the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots. Its rejuvenating properties even improve skin elasticity and reduce inflammation. No wonder it’s become a prized ingredient in modern skincare!

But what exactly is frankincense oil? And why are there different types?

The birth of frankincense oil

Frankincense essential oil comes from the Boswellia tree—a scraggly, almost alien-looking plant that thrives in the arid, rocky regions of the Arabian Peninsula, East Africa, and India. (My current frankincense essential oil is the Boswellia carterii type, from Somalia.)

To get the oil, harvesters make small incisions in the tree bark. The tree, being the clever thing it is, protects itself by oozing out a resin. This resin is then collected and steam-distilled to produce the essential oil we know and love.

(Side note: If you’re interested in the sustainability aspect of frankincense production, check out this article on over harvesting. It’s important to be aware of this issue when buying frankincense essential oils, as there are companies out there that DO care about sustainable practices.)

Now, here’s where it gets really interesting—not all frankincense oils are created equal. In fact, there are four main types, each with its own unique properties and benefits.

Remember those questions I asked earlier about why your frankincense might not be living up to expectations? This is why. Different types of frankincense oils have different strengths and uses.

So, are you ready to discover which type of frankincense oil is your perfect match? Come with me into the world of Boswellia and learn the secrets of these four fantastic frankincense varieties!

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1. Boswellia carterii: the jack-of-all-trades in the frankincense world

If you’re looking for a versatile frankincense oil that’s ideal for everyday use, look no further than Boswellia carterii. This all-purpose wonder is the type you’re most likely to find in skincare products—including mine!

What makes carterii special?

• Origin: Picture the rugged, sun-baked landscapes of Somalia and parts of Ethiopia. That’s where this resilient frankincense is harvested—it’s a true survivor of harsh conditions!
• Aroma: Close your eyes and imagine a warm, balsamic scent with a hint of lemon. Comforting, isn’t it? That’s the signature fragrance of carterii.
• Popularity: It’s the go-to frankincense for a reason. Its versatility and ability to play well with other scents make it a formulator’s dream.

Why I’m head over heels for carterii in skincare

1. Skin-Loving Properties: FANTASTIC is an understatement. Carterii is a multitasker, targeting everything from dryness to fine lines while enhancing that coveted healthy glow.
2. Balancing Act: Oily skin? Dry skin? Carterii doesn’t discriminate. It helps regulate oil production, making it a boon for all skin types.
3. Calming Touch: Got sensitive or irritated skin? Carterii steps in as a soothing superhero, calming and comforting your complexion.
4. Stress-Busting Bonus: Its relaxing aroma is perfect for reducing stress—and let’s face it, we could all use a bit more zen in our lives!

Bringing carterii into your home

Ready to experience the magic of Boswellia carterii? Here’s how you can use it:

• Supercharge Your Skincare: Find it in facial oils, serums, and moisturisers. Or get creative! Add a drop to your favourite cream for an instant luxury boost.
• Relaxation Station: Create a calming diffuser blend with 3 drops carterii, 4 drops lavender, and 3 drops bergamot. Pure stress relief!
• Breathe Easy: For respiratory support, add 2-3 drops to a bowl of hot water. Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes.

Remember, always do a patch test first. We’re all unique, and so is our skin!

WANT TO TRY IT? HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED BOSWELLIA CARTERII FRANKINCENSE OIL.

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2. Boswellia frereana: The ‘Queen of Frankincense’ lives up to its royal title!

Move over, Carterii—it’s time to roll out the red carpet for Boswellia frereana, the crown jewel of the frankincense world.

Often called the ‘King of Frankincense’, I prefer to call it the “Queen” (because let’s face it, it just sounds better).

What makes frereana royalty?

• Origin: The tree grows in the sun-scorched, calcium-rich soils of somalia. That’s where this regal oil comes from. It’s so picky about its growing conditions that its rarity is part of its prestige!
• Aroma: Frereana boasts a complex, rich scent with sweet, citrusy top notes and a deep, woody base. It’s like wearing a rare, high-end perfume.
• Popularity: While not as common as its Carterii cousin, Frereana is the darling of aromatherapy enthusiasts and luxury skincare brands. Why? Its superior quality and unique properties make it a true VIP in the essential oil world.

A royal treatment for your skin

1. Ageing Skin’s Best Friend: Frereana is packed with compounds (incensole acetate and octyl acetate) that may help reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Your face will love it.
2. Skin-Firming Magic: Want that youthful, lifted look? Frereana is known for improving skin elasticity. A natural facelift in a bottle.
3. Balances Your Complexion: Just like Carterii, Frereana helps balance oil production.
4. Luxe Feel: Its lighter consistency makes it absorb fast leaving your skin feeling SILKY smooth without any greasy residue.

Bringing the queen into your castle

Ready to add some luxury to your routine? Here’s how to use Boswellia frereana:

• Skincare Splurge: Look for it in high-end serums and facial oils. Or, for an instant upgrade, add a drop to your night cream and turn it into a LUXURIOUS treat!
• Confidence Booster: Diffuse 3-4 drops when you need to feel centred and confident. It’s perfect before important meetings or events. (Board room jitters? What board room jitters?)
• Meditation Haven: Add 3-4 drops to your diffuser during meditation or yoga for that lovely, grounding feeling.

Remember, with Frereana, less is more. Its potency means a little goes a long way. And as always, do a patch test first. (I know, I sound like a broken record, but I have to make sure you’ve read it along the article, somewhere)

Boswellia frereana might be more of an investment, depending on the brand you purchase, but for those seeking a touch of luxury in their skincare or aromatic practices, it’s truly unparalleled. Ready to feel like royalty?

WANT TO TRY IT? HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED BOSWELLIA FREREANA FRANKINCENSE OIL

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3. Boswellia sacra: the ‘Sacred Frankincense’ – a spiritual journey oil

Step into the realm of Boswellia sacra, often referred to as ‘sacred frankincense’.

This grounding oil par excellence is renowned in the world of aromatherapy and spiritual practices.

What elevates sacra to its revered status?

• Origin: Primarily harvested from the Dhofar region of Oman, with some supplies also coming from Yemen. These ancient trees, thriving in harsh, arid conditions, produce a resin that has been valued for millennia.
• Aroma: Sacra’s scent is DEEP, RICH, and COMPLEX. It’s balsamic and woody with subtle sweet and citrusy undertones. Its aroma is profoundly grounding and perfect for meditation.
• Popularity: While not as prevalent in everyday products as Carterii, Sacra is highly sought after for spiritual and meditation practices, as well as in premium aromatherapy blends.

The sacred qualities of sacra

1. Spiritual Connection: Used in religious and spiritual ceremonies for thousands of years, Sacra is believed to enhance meditation and enrich prayer experiences.
2. Emotional Balance: It’s thought to promote feelings of peace, relaxation, and emotional stability.
3. Skin Rejuvenation: Like other frankincense oils, Sacra may improve skin tone and reduce the appearance of blemishes and fine lines.
4. Respiratory Support: Traditionally used to support healthy breathing and clear the airways.

Incorporating sacra into your rituals

Ready to experience the sacred properties of Boswellia sacra? Here’s how you can use it:

• Elevate Your Meditation: Add 3-4 drops to your diffuser to create a serene, focused atmosphere during meditation or yoga.
• Enhance Your Skincare: Look for it in premium facial oils or serums, or add 1 drop to your daily moisturiser for added skin benefits.
• Emotional Support: Inhale directly from the bottle or sprinkle 2-3 drops on a tissue when seeking emotional balance or centring.
• Grounding Massage: Mix 5-6 drops with a tablespoon (about 15 ml) of carrier oil (such as almond, olive, or grapeseed oil) for a deeply relaxing and grounding massage experience.

Remember, essential oils are potent; a little Sacra goes a long way due to its intensity and depth. As always, perform a patch test before applying to your skin.

Boswellia sacra might be more of an investment, but for those seeking a profound aromatic experience or a touch of the sacred in their daily routines, it’s truly unparalleled!

WANT TO TRY IT? HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED BOSWELLIA SACRA FRANKINCENSE OIL. THIS OIL IS NOT CHEAP (but in my opinion, this one is the best brand for this oil)!

Next, we’ll explore Boswellia serrata, the powerhouse of the frankincense world in Ayurvedic traditions.

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4. Boswellia serrata: the Ayurvedic oil of the frankincense family!

Ladies and gentlemen, put your hands together for Boswellia serrata – the unsung hero of the frankincense world and a true superstar in Ayurvedic traditions! 🌟

While it might not be strutting down the Western beauty aisles (yet), serrata has been stealing the show in the wellness scene for centuries. Let’s check out why this earthy powerhouse deserves a standing ovation!

What makes serrata a star?

• Origin: India’s dry, hilly landscapes. That’s where serrata calls home, thriving for centuries and packing its resin with powerful compounds. It’s like nature’s own wellness capsule.
• Aroma: Imagine a warm, spicy hug with woody undertones. That’s serrata for you! It’s the earthy cousin in the frankincense family – not as sweet, but oh so grounding. Think of it as the ‘strong silent type’ of essential oils.
• Popularity: While it might not be headlining your local Sephora, serrata is the A-lister of Ayurvedic medicine. It’s quickly gaining fans in the wellness world, and honestly? I’m not surprised.

Why I’m head over heels for this wellness wonder

• Joint Jive: Serrata is like a tiny dancer for your joints, celebrated for supporting mobility.
• Tummy Tamer: In Ayurvedic practices, it’s the go-to for encouraging happy digestion. It’s like a gentle, aromatic pat on the back for your stomach.
• Breath of Fresh Air: Just like its frankincense cousins, serrata is really good at promoting clear breathing.
• Skin Saviour: Serrata has a softer side too, potentially enhancing skin tone and texture.

Bringing serrata into your self-care sanctuary

• In aromatherapy: Diffuse 5-7 drops for an instant zen den. It’s perfect for those “I need a moment” moments.
• Topically: Use 1-2 drops of serrata essential oil diluted in a tablespoon (about 15 ml) of carrier oil in body oils or balms formulated for wellness—just remember to dilute it properly before applying.
• In skincare: Though not as common, you might find serrata included at around 1-2% in products aimed at reducing inflammation and the signs of ageing. It does pack a punch.
• During yoga or meditation: Add 3-4 drops to your diffuser or mix a drop with carrier oil for your wrists or temples.

Remember, serrata is potent stuff – a little goes a long way. And always, always do a patch test. (Yes, I’m saying it again. It’s because I care!)

While Boswellia serrata might not be the first frankincense you’d bump into at a beauty counter, it’s the one you’ll want to invite to your next wellness party. If you’re all about that holistic lifestyle and Ayurvedic wisdom, serrata is your new oil.

WANT TO TRY IT? HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED BOSWELLIA SERRATA FRANKINCENSE OIL

Now that we’ve explored all four frankincense oils, you’re probably wondering which one’s your perfect match.

Don’t worry – coming up next, we’ll put them head-to-head to help you find your frankincense soulmate.

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Choosing your frankincense oil.. which one’s your perfect match?

Alright, frankincense aficionadas, it’s time for the moment of truth!

Let’s break down each type of frankincense oil and help you find your aromatic soulmate.

Ready to meet your match?

1. Boswellia carterii (friendly all-rounder)

Choose this if you’re:

• A frankincense newbie looking for a versatile, all-purpose oil
• On the hunt for a skincare superhero that suits most skin types
• After an affordable frankincense for your daily ritual
• Mixing and matching in your aromatherapy adventures
• Craving a subtle, everyday scent that won’t overpower your senses

HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED BOSWELLIA CARTERII FRANKINCENSE OIL.

2. Boswellia frereana (Luxe skin)

Go for this if you’re:

• Serious about mature skincare and want results
• In the mood for a high-end frankincense experience
• Dreaming of a complex, perfume-like aroma that’ll turn heads
• Willing to invest in the crème de la crème of essential oils
• Whipping up a premium skincare blend fit for royalty

HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED BOSWELLIA FREREANA FRANKINCENSE OIL

3. Boswellia sacra (spiritual soother)

This is your oil if you’re:

• Incorporating frankincense into your meditation or spiritual practices
• Seeking an aroma that’ll ground you really, really fast
• Fascinated by oils with a rich history in religious ceremonies
• In need of some serious emotional balance and stress relief
• Creating a blend that’ll take your relaxation or contemplative practices to new heights

HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED BOSWELLIA SACRA FRANKINCENSE OIL

4. Boswellia serrata (an Ayurvedic all-star)

Choose this when you’re:

• Looking for a natural ally in joint health and mobility
• Craving a frankincense with an earthy, robust scent that means business
• Focusing on overall wellness, not just skincare or aroma
• Formulating products aimed at reducing inflammation
• Diving deep into Ayurvedic practices and remedies

HERE’S MY RECOMMENDED BOSWELLIA SERRATA FRANKINCENSE OIL

Remember, while each type has its specialities, all frankincense oils share some common benefits. The best choice depends on your specific needs, preferences, and how your body responds to the oil.

Always start with a small amount and do a patch test, regardless of which type you choose. Your skin and nose are unique, so what works for others might not be perfect for you.

Next, I’ll share some practical tips on how to use your chosen frankincense oil effectively and safely.

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Making the most of your frankincense: tips & safety

Now that you’ve chosen your frankincense oil, let’s explore how to use it effectively and safely.

The below tips apply to ALL types of frankincense, so you can feel confident no matter which one you’ve selected.

Dilution (as always this is key!!)

ALWAYS ALWAYS ALWAYS dilute your frankincense oil before applying it to your skin. A good rule of thumb is:

• For facial use: 1-2 drops per 10ml of carrier oil (10ml equals 2 teaspoons)
• For body use: 3-5 drops per 10ml of carrier oil (10ml equals 2 teaspoons)

Great carrier oils would include jojoba, sweet almond, or fractionated coconut oil (fractionated is the one that stays liquid, better for diluting your essential oils than the more solid version). Or olive oil. Any vegetable oil you love. Just remember everyone’s skin is different, so start with a lower concentration and then you can always adjust as needed.

Patch testing (have I mentioned it above??) YES. MANY TIMES!

If you’ve never used frankincense oil on your skin you need to patch test.

This is the last time I will mention this in the article, so DO NOT SKIP PLEASE.

1. Mix 1 drop frankincense for 1 teaspoon of a carrier oil like almond or jojoba or olive or coconut oil. If 2 drops fall out, that’s ok.
2. Apply to a small area on your inner forearm
3. Cover with a bandage and wait 24 hours
4. If there’s no reaction, you’re likely good to go

Aromatherapy and diffusing it

Frankincense TOTALLY SHINES in aromatherapy.

Here’s how to use it:

• In a diffuser: 3-4 drops for a standard room
• Direct inhalation: 1-2 drops on a tissue, inhale as needed (for example, for grounding yourself)
• In a steam inhaler: 2-3 drops in hot water, inhale the steam (great for respiratory support!)

Skincare

To boost your skincare routine:

• Add 1-2 drops of frankincense oil to your regular moisturiser—this means adding the drops to the amount of moisturiser you apply to your face, neck, décolletage, and even the backs of your hands for added benefit. I never forget the back of my hands.
• Mix 1-2 drops of frankincense oil with 10 ml (2 teaspoons) of a carrier oil to create a nourishing facial serum. If you use rosehip oil as the carrier, you’ll have a LUXURIOUS serum that could easily OUTPERFORM many commercial products on the market. That’s how POWERFUL and EFFECTIVE this blend is!
• For a purifying treatment, add 1-2 drops of frankincense oil to your clay mask. Mix the drops into the clay mask base, such as bentonite or kaolin clay, using a NON-METALLIC spoon (like a wooden or plastic spoon) to avoid any reaction with the clay. Apply the mask to your face, leave it on for 10-15 minutes, then rinse off with warm water. This combination will help DRAW OUT impurities while soothing and rejuvenating the skin.

Massage/body lotion

For a luxurious body treatment:

• Add 5-6 drops per 10ml of carrier oil (again, almond oil, grapeseed oil, jojoba oil, olive oil… all great oils for this) for a fantastically soothing massage blend
• Mix a few drops into an unscented (and natural, if possible) body lotion for all-over moisture. Whatever you regularly use is fine but I will always push for you to buy natural.

Storage

To keep your frankincense oil in top condition:

• Store in a cool, dark place (yes, the refrigerator is fine).
• Keep the cap tightly closed when not in use (I always make sure to put the lid on, even while using the product, to prevent exposure).
• Use dark glass bottles when making your mixes and blends (this is to protect the liquid from light degradation).

Shelf life

Here’s a quick guide on the shelf life – this info is not easy to find elsewhere!

Your Frankincense Oil Type	Shelf Life	Storage Tips
Boswellia carterii	2-3 years	Store in a cool, dark place; tightly seal.
Boswellia frereana	2-3 years	Store in a cool, dark place; tightly seal.
Boswellia sacra	3-4 years	Store in a cool, dark place; tightly seal.
Boswellia serrata	2-3 years	Store in a cool, dark place; tightly seal.

When to avoid

Be cautious with frankincense if you are:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding (consult your doctor first)
• Taking blood-thinning medication
• Prone to seizures
• Preparing for surgery (stop use at least two weeks before)

Remember, essential oils are potent. More isn’t always better. Start with less, and you can always add more if needed.

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Quick tips to make the most of your frankincense oil

Don’t let your frankincense oil gather dust!

Here are some practical ways to incorporate it into your daily routine:

1. Morning Boost
   • Add a drop to your moisturiser for glowing skin
   • Diffuse while getting ready for a positive start
2. Workday Wellness
   • Inhale from a tissue for instant calm
   • Use a roller blend for quick temple massage
3. Evening Unwinding
   • Add to a warm bath for a luxurious soak
   • Mix with carrier oil for a relaxing foot massage
4. Skincare Supercharger
   • Create a night serum with your facial oil (recipe above)
   • Mix with aloe vera gel for a soothing after-sun treatment (mix 2-3 drops of frankincense essential oil with 2 tablespoons – about 30 ml – of aloe vera gel.)
5. Home Atmosphere
   • Diffuse to freshen living spaces (recipes above)
   • Add a drop to vacuum bag for subtle, clean scent
6. On-the-Go Aromatherapy
   • Carry a pre-diluted roller bottle
   • Use scent strips for quick aromatherapy boosts!

Wow! You made it here! I really, really hope the above helped!

So, you made it all the way to the end of the article.

This means you’re truly committed to making the most of your frankincense oil, and I couldn’t be happier for you! By exploring all these ways to incorporate frankincense into your routine, you’re not just using an oil – you’re embracing a tradition of wellness that’s as ancient as it is POWERFUL.

Whether it’s the skincare boosts, the calming scent, or the spiritual depth that speaks to you, there’s a PERFECT SPOT for frankincense in your daily life.

Til the next article.

xx