Frankincense and Myrrh Essential Oil: Healing Power for Wellbeing

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Introduction

Frankincense and myrrh are two of the most commonly used aromatic resins in the world. While they have been used for centuries for their fragrance, they are also well known for their medicinal properties. 

Frankincense essential oil is extracted from the resin of the Boswellia tree, which is native to the Arabian Peninsula, while myrrh essential oil is extracted from the resin of the Commiphora myrrha tree, which grows in Africa and the Middle East. The use of frankincense and myrrh essential oils dates back to traditional Chinese medicine, where they were used to help relieve inflammation and pain.

Studies have shown that myrrh has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making it useful in treating irritable bowel syndrome, swelling and pain. This oil could have potential anti-tumor properties and may prevent cancer cells from spreading by preventing the production of leukotrienes, which can cause muscles to constrict.

One study of people with asthma found that inhaling frankincense EO helped reduce swelling and pain in the bronchial tubes. Frankincense and myrrh essential oils are also used to help prevent and treat oral infections (link 1, link 2) and may also help to reduce the risk of certain cancers.

In this article, we will explore the practical uses of frankincense and myrrh essential oils and the possible side effects associated with their use. We will also discuss the chemical structure of frankincense and myrrh essential oils, and the healing properties of these oils. Finally, we will provide tips on how to use frankincense and myrrh essential oils, such as adding a drop to liquid soap or using them in an essential oil diffuser.

It is important to note that frankincense and myrrh essential oils should be kept out of reach of children, and further studies are needed to fully understand their potential antimicrobial effects.

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Types of Frankincense

There are several different types of frankincense, each with their own unique scent and properties. Some of the most commonly used types of frankincense include:

1. Boswellia carterii

Also known as the “true” frankincense, Boswellia carterii is the most common type of frankincense and is widely used for its therapeutic properties. It has a warm, woody scent and is often used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation and reduce stress.

2. Boswellia serrata

Boswellia serrata, also known as Indian frankincense, is a type of frankincense that is native to India. It has a fresh, citrusy scent and is often used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine to reduce inflammation and promote joint health.

3. Boswellia frereana

Boswellia frereana, also known as Somali frankincense, is a type of frankincense that is native to Somalia. It has a sweet, fruity scent and is often used in perfumes and incense.

4. Boswellia papyrifera

Boswellia papyrifera, also known as Ethiopian frankincense, is a type of frankincense that is native to Ethiopia. It has a rich, spicy scent and is often used in traditional medicine to promote skin health and relieve pain.

5. Boswellia sacra

Boswellia sacra, also known as Omani frankincense, is a type of frankincense that is native to Oman. It has a sweet, floral scent and is often used in perfumes and cosmetics.

Each type of frankincense has its own unique properties and uses, and can be used in a variety of ways to promote health and well-being.

Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense essential oil has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including:

1. Anti-inflammatory properties

One of the most well-known benefits is its anti-inflammatory effects. The oil contains boswellic acid, which has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain in the body. Studies have found that frankincense extract can be effective in reducing inflammation in conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and asthma.

2. Pain relief for arthritis

Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it may also help to alleviate pain associated with arthritis. One study found that frankincense extract was effective in reducing pain and improving physical function in people with osteoarthritis.

3. Respiratory benefits for asthma

Inhaling the oil has been shown to have respiratory benefits for people with asthma. One study found that inhaling the oil for four weeks helped to improve lung function and reduce asthma symptoms.

4. Oral health benefits

Frankincense essential oil could also help to prevent and treat oral infections. One study involving patients with gingivitis found that using a mouthwash containing frankincense extract was effective in reducing inflammation and bleeding.

5. Potential cancer-fighting properties

Studies have found that frankincense EO may have potential anti-tumor properties, particularly in cancer cell lines. One study found that frankincense extract was effective in inducing cell death in bladder cancer cells.

6. Antibacterial properties

Frankincense essential oil has also been shown to have antibacterial properties, making it useful in treating and preventing bacterial infections. One study found that the oil was effective in inhibiting the growth of several types of bacteria.

7. Aromatherapy benefits

Finally, frankincense essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy due to its relaxing and calming properties. It is often used to reduce stress and anxiety, and may also be useful in improving sleep quality.

It’s important to note that further studies are needed to fully understand the benefits of frankincense essential oil, and to determine the most effective dosages and methods of use.

How to Use Frankincense Oil

Frankincense essential oil can be used in a variety of ways, including:

1. Topical use

Frankincense oil can be used on the skin to help reduce inflammation and pain. It is often diluted with a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or almond oil, before being applied to the skin. It is important to do a patch test before using frankincense oil on the skin, as some people may be allergic to it.

2. Inhaling

Inhaling frankincense oil can help to improve respiratory function and reduce stress and anxiety. The oil can be added to an essential oil diffuser or placed on a cotton ball and inhaled.

3. Oral consumption

Frankincense oil should only be consumed under the guidance of a healthcare professional, as it can have serious side effects if taken in high doses. The appropriate dosage of frankincense oil depends on the method of use and the individual. It is important to follow guidelines carefully, and to consult a healthcare professional before using frankincense oil.

Types of Myrrh

There are different species of trees that produce myrrh, but the resin collected from the trees is generally referred to as myrrh. However, the quality and properties of the myrrh resin can vary depending on the species of the tree and the region where it is harvested. Some of the most commonly used species of myrrh-producing trees include:

1. Commiphora myrrha

Commiphora myrrha is the most well-known species of myrrh-producing tree and is commonly referred to simply as “myrrh”. It is native to the Arabian Peninsula and produces a resin that has a warm, balsamic scent. It is often used in traditional medicine to promote skin health and treat respiratory issues.

2. Commiphora erythraea

Commiphora erythraea, also known as the East African myrrh tree, is native to East Africa and produces a resin that has a slightly sweeter, more herbaceous scent than C. myrrha. It is often used in traditional medicine to treat digestive issues and promote oral health.

3. Commiphora molmol

Commiphora molmol, also known as the Somali myrrh tree, is native to Somalia and produces a resin that has a sharp, bitter scent. It is often used in traditional medicine to promote wound healing and relieve pain.

Each species of myrrh-producing tree can produce a resin with slightly different properties and scents, which can influence how the resin is used in traditional medicine and aromatherapy.

Benefits of Myrrh Oil

In addition to frankincense, myrrh essential oil also has numerous health benefits, including:

1. Anti-inflammatory properties

Like frankincense, myrrh essential oil also has anti-inflammatory properties. It contains compounds that can help to reduce inflammation and pain in the body. Studies have found that myrrh oil can be effective in reducing inflammation in conditions such as osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and Crohn’s disease.

2. Oral health benefits

Myrrh essential oil could also help to prevent and treat oral infections. It has been shown to have antimicrobial and antifungal properties, making it useful in treating conditions such as gingivitis and halitosis.

3. Wound healing properties

Myrrh essential oil has been used for centuries to help heal wounds and prevent infection. It contains compounds that can help to stimulate blood flow and promote the growth of new tissue, making it useful in treating conditions such as skin ulcers and bedsores.

4. Anti-cancer properties

Some studies have found that myrrh essential oil could have anti-cancer properties. One study found that myrrh extract was effective in reducing the growth of tumor cells in the breast and prostate.

5. Digestive benefits

Myrrh essential oil may also be useful in treating digestive issues, such as diarrhea and indigestion. It has been shown to have antispasmodic properties, which can help to reduce muscle spasms in the digestive tract.

6. Aromatherapy benefits

Finally, myrrh essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy due to its grounding and calming properties. It is often used to reduce stress and anxiety, and may also be useful in improving sleep quality.

It’s important to note that further studies are needed to fully understand the benefits of myrrh essential oil, and to determine the most effective amounts and methods of use. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using myrrh oil for medicinal purposes.

How to Use Myrrh Oil

Myrrh essential oil can be used in a variety of ways to promote health and well-being. Some common methods of use include:

1. Inhalation

Inhaling myrrh essential oil can help to relieve respiratory issues, such as congestion and coughing. Add a few drops of myrrh oil to a bowl of hot water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes.

2. Topical application

Myrrh essential oil can be applied directly to the skin to help heal wounds and reduce inflammation. Dilute myrrh oil in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil or jojoba oil, and apply to affected areas of the skin as needed.

3. Oral hygiene

Myrrh essential oil has antimicrobial properties that make it useful in promoting oral health. Add a drop of myrrh oil to your toothbrush or mix a drop of myrrh oil with water and use as a mouth rinse.

4. Aromatherapy

Myrrh essential oil can be diffused in an essential oil diffuser to promote feelings of relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety.

Traditional Chinese medicine

In traditional Chinese medicine, myrrh essential oil is often used to promote blood circulation and reduce pain and inflammation. It is also used to treat digestive issues, such as diarrhea and dysentery.

MYRRH ESSENTIAL OIL: GET IT HERE

It’s important to note that myrrh essential oil is potent and should be used with caution. Always do a patch test before using any essential oil on the skin, and consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils for medicinal purposes.

Frankincense and Myrrh: Differences and Similarities

While frankincense and myrrh are often used together, they have some distinct differences in terms of their chemical composition and health benefits.

Source and production

Frankincense essential oil is extracted from the resin of the Boswellia tree, which is native to the Arabian Peninsula, while myrrh essential oil is extracted from the resin of the Commiphora myrrha tree, which grows in Africa and the Middle East.

Chemical composition

Frankincense essential oil contains compounds such as boswellic acid and terpenes, which have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Myrrh essential oil contains compounds such as furanoeudesma-1,3-diene and curzerene, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Health benefits

While both frankincense and myrrh may help to reduce pain and inflammation, they have some unique health benefits as well. For example, myrrh essential oil may be particularly effective in treating digestive issues, while frankincense essential oil may have potential anti-tumor properties.

Pain and inflammation

Both frankincense and myrrh essential oils have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them useful in treating conditions such as arthritis and respiratory issues.

It’s important to note that further studies are needed to fully understand the differences and similarities between frankincense and myrrh essential oils, and to determine the most effective amounts and methods of use. It is always recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using these oils for medicinal purposes.

Myrrh and frankincense may…

Some studies have found that a combination of myrrh and frankincense may be particularly effective in treating certain conditions, such as inflammatory bowel disease.

Mixing Frankincense and Myrrh Essential Oils

Frankincense and myrrh essential oils can be used together to create a synergistic effect, with benefits for both physical and mental health. Some of the benefits of mixing these oils together include:

1. Skin benefits

Frankincense and myrrh essential oils are both known for their skin-healing properties. When used together, they can help to reduce inflammation and promote the growth of new tissue, making them useful in treating conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Below are some helpful recipes:

Anti-Acne Serum

• 2 tablespoons jojoba oil
• 3 drops frankincense essential oil
• 3 drops myrrh essential oil
• 2 drops tea tree essential oil

Mix all ingredients together in a small glass bottle. Apply a few drops to clean skin before bed.

Eczema and Psoriasis Relief Balm

• 1/2 cup coconut oil
• 1/4 cup shea butter
• 1/4 cup beeswax
• 20 drops frankincense essential oil
• 10 drops myrrh essential oil

Melt coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax together in a double boiler. Once melted, remove from heat and add essential oils. Stir well and pour into a small jar. Allow to cool and solidify before use. Apply to affected areas of skin as needed.

Anti-Aging Facial Oil

• 1/2 oz rosehip seed oil
• 1/2 oz argan oil
• 5 drops frankincense essential oil
• 5 drops myrrh essential oil

Mix all ingredients together in a small glass bottle. Apply a few drops to clean skin in the morning and/or at night.

These DIY recipes can help to promote skin health and reduce inflammation and irritation. As with any new skincare product, it’s important to do a patch test before using to ensure that you don’t have an allergic reaction. Additionally, these recipes are not a substitute for medical treatment and should not be used to treat serious skin conditions without consulting with a healthcare professional first.

2. Aromatherapy benefits

The combination of frankincense and myrrh essential oils can create a pleasing aroma that has a grounding and calming effect on the mind and body. It is often used in aromatherapy to reduce stress and anxiety, and to promote feelings of relaxation. Some helpful recipes:

Grounding Diffuser Blend

• 3 drops frankincense essential oil
• 3 drops myrrh essential oil
• 2 drops cedarwood essential oil
• 2 drops lavender essential oil

Add all ingredients to an essential oil diffuser and diffuse for 30-60 minutes at a time.

Relaxing Bath Salt Blend

• 1 cup Epsom salt
• 10 drops frankincense essential oil
• 10 drops myrrh essential oil

Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl. Add to warm bathwater and soak for 20-30 minutes.

Stress-Relief Roller Blend

• 10 ml roller bottle
• 5 drops frankincense essential oil
• 5 drops myrrh essential oil
• 5 drops bergamot essential oil
• Carrier oil (such as jojoba oil or fractionated coconut oil)

Add essential oils to the roller bottle and top with carrier oil. Roll onto wrists, temples, and/or the back of the neck as needed to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

These DIY recipes can help to create a calming and grounding atmosphere, reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, and promote relaxation. As with any new aromatherapy product, it’s important to start with a low dilution and do a patch test to ensure that you don’t have an allergic reaction. Additionally, these recipes are not a substitute for medical treatment and should not be used to treat serious mental health conditions without consulting with a healthcare professional first.

3. Anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties

Both frankincense and myrrh essential oils have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, making them useful in treating conditions such as arthritis and respiratory issues. Helpful recipes:

Arthritis Relief Massage Oil

• 1/4 cup jojoba oil
• 10 drops frankincense essential oil
• 10 drops myrrh essential oil
• 5 drops ginger essential oil

Mix all ingredients together in a small glass bottle. Apply a few drops to affected joints and massage gently to help reduce pain and inflammation.

Respiratory Relief Steam

• 4 cups boiling water
• 10 drops frankincense essential oil
• 10 drops myrrh essential oil

Add essential oils to a large bowl or pot of boiling water. Lean over the bowl and inhale the steam for 10-15 minutes to help reduce respiratory inflammation and congestion.

Soothing Bath Oil

• 1/2 cup sweet almond oil
• 10 drops frankincense essential oil
• 10 drops myrrh essential oil
• 5 drops lavender essential oil

Mix all ingredients together in a small glass bottle. Add a few drops to warm bathwater and soak for 20-30 minutes to help reduce overall inflammation and promote relaxation.

These DIY recipes can help to reduce inflammation and pain in the body, making them useful in treating conditions such as arthritis and respiratory issues. As with any new essential oil product, it’s important to do a patch test before using to ensure that you don’t have an allergic reaction. Additionally, these recipes are not a substitute for medical treatment and should not be used to treat serious health conditions without consulting with a healthcare professional first.

4. As perfume

The combination of frankincense and myrrh essential oils also creates a pleasant scent that is often used as a perfume. The warm, woody aroma can help to reduce stress and promote relaxation, making it a popular choice for aromatherapy and personal use. When using the combination of frankincense and myrrh as a perfume, it is important to dilute the oils in a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation and to apply the perfume to pulse points, such as the wrists and neck. Make your own perfumes:

Earthy Roll-On Perfume

• 10 ml roller bottle
• 5 drops frankincense essential oil
• 5 drops myrrh essential oil
• 5 drops patchouli essential oil
• Carrier oil (such as jojoba oil or fractionated coconut oil)

Add essential oils to the roller bottle and top with carrier oil. Roll onto pulse points as needed for an earthy, grounding scent.

Oriental Solid Perfume

• 1 tablespoon beeswax
• 1 tablespoon jojoba oil
• 10 drops frankincense essential oil
• 10 drops myrrh essential oil
• 5 drops jasmine essential oil

Melt beeswax and jojoba oil together in a double boiler. Once melted, remove from heat and add essential oils. Stir well and pour into a small tin or jar. Allow to cool and solidify before use. Apply to pulse points as needed for a warm, exotic scent.

Woody Room Spray

• 1 oz water
• 10 drops frankincense essential oil
• 10 drops myrrh essential oil
• 5 drops cedarwood essential oil

Mix all ingredients together in a small glass spray bottle. Shake well and spray throughout a room for a warm, woody scent.

These DIY perfume recipes can help to create a unique and personalized scent while also providing the aromatherapy benefits of frankincense and myrrh essential oils. As with any new perfume product, it’s important to do a patch test before using to ensure that you don’t have an allergic reaction. Additionally, these recipes are not a substitute for traditional perfume products and may not have the same longevity or intensity of fragrance.

5. Anti-cancer properties

Some studies have found that a combination of frankincense and myrrh essential oils may have potential anti-tumor properties, particularly in cancer cell lines. One study found that a combination of frankincense and myrrh extracts was effective in inducing cell death in bladder cancer cells.

Anti-Cancer Oil Blend

• 1/2 cup carrier oil (such as jojoba oil or fractionated coconut oil)
• 10 drops frankincense essential oil
• 10 drops myrrh essential oil
• 5 drops sandalwood essential oil

Mix all ingredients together in a small glass bottle. Apply a few drops to the skin (avoiding any sensitive areas) and massage in gently.

It’s important to note that while some studies have suggested that frankincense and myrrh extracts may have anti-tumor properties, more research is needed to fully understand the potential benefits of these oils for cancer treatment. Additionally, these oils are not a substitute for medical treatment and should not be used to treat cancer or any other serious health condition without consulting with a healthcare professional first.

Dosage and method of use

When using a combination of frankincense and myrrh essential oils, it is important to follow guidelines carefully and to use a carrier oil such as coconut oil or almond oil to dilute the oils before applying them to the skin. It is also important to do a patch test before using the oils on the skin to ensure that there is no allergic reaction.

Other Helpful DIY recipes

DIY Skin Healing Serum

• 5 drops frankincense essential oil
• 5 drops myrrh essential oil
• 1 ounce carrier oil (such as coconut oil or jojoba oil)

Mix all ingredients together in a small glass bottle. Apply to affected areas of the skin as needed.

DIY Relaxation Blend

• 4 drops frankincense essential oil
• 4 drops myrrh essential oil
• 4 drops lavender essential oil
• 1 ounce carrier oil (such as sweet almond oil or grapeseed oil)

Mix all ingredients together in a small glass bottle. Use as a massage oil, or add a few drops to an essential oil diffuser.

DIY Anti-inflammatory Blend

• 2 drops frankincense essential oil
• 2 drops myrrh essential oil
• 2 drops ginger essential oil
• 1 ounce carrier oil (such as jojoba oil or avocado oil)

Mix all ingredients together in a small glass bottle. Apply to affected areas of the body as needed.

DIY Oral Rinse

• 2 drops frankincense essential oil
• 2 drops myrrh essential oil
• 1 cup warm water

Mix all ingredients together in a glass. Swish in mouth for 30 seconds, then spit out. Use as needed for oral hygiene.

DIY Relaxing Bath Salts

• 1 cup Epsom salts
• 10 drops frankincense essential oil
• 10 drops myrrh essential oil

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Add to a warm bath and soak for 20-30 minutes.

DIY Perfume Roll-On

• 3 drops frankincense essential oil
• 3 drops myrrh essential oil
• 2 drops bergamot essential oil
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (such as sweet almond oil or jojoba oil)
• 10 ml roller bottle

Mix all ingredients together in the roller bottle. Apply to pulse points as desired.

It’s important to note that essential oils are potent and should be used with caution. Always do a patch test before using any essential oil on the skin, and consult with a healthcare professional before using essential oils for medicinal purposes.

Conclusion

Frankincense and myrrh essential oils have been used for centuries for their healing properties and pleasing fragrances. Both oils have anti-inflammatory effects and may be useful in treating a range of health issues, from respiratory problems to cancer.

The use of frankincense essential oil in particular has been well-documented, with studies showing that it has strong anti-inflammatory effects and may help to reduce pain and inflammation. Drops of frankincense oil can be added to carrier oils or used in aromatherapy to promote physical and mental well-being.

Myrrh essential oil is also a valuable addition to any natural medicine cabinet, with its pentacyclic triterpene content making it particularly useful in treating inflammation and pain. It has been used in traditional and alternative medicine for centuries to promote health and well-being.

While both frankincense and myrrh essential oils have many benefits, it is important to use them with caution and to consult with a healthcare professional before using them for medicinal purposes. The use of these oils is not a substitute for medical care, and they should always be used in conjunction with other treatments as recommended by a healthcare professional.

In conclusion, the benefits of frankincense and myrrh essential oils are vast and varied, and their use can be traced back to ancient times. From the frankincense tree to the pentacyclic triterpene in myrrh, the therapeutic properties of these oils may be due to a variety of factors. With proper use and care, frankincense and myrrh essential oils can be valuable tools in maintaining health and promoting well-being.