Frankincense Essential Oil

Also known as oilibanum the tree originates from the Middle East. It is a small shrubby tree with much biblical background and significance. The tree produces small white flowers.

Characteristics

A fresh citrus type scent... with lemon tones and a woody, spicy balsamic undertones.

Oils to Blend with

Frankincense blends well with most woods and floral's and is a very versatile oil in blends. Frankincense also blends well with Basil, Black Pepper, Galbanum, Geranium, Grapefruit, Lavender, Orange, Melissa, Patchouli, Pine and Sandalwood.

Latin Name

Boswellia carterii

Plant Family

Burseraceae

Extraction Method

Incisions are made into the bark which releases a white milky resin. When left this turns hard into an orangey brown resin which is then steam distilled into the essential oil.

Country of Origin

Somalia

Chemical Constituents

Cadinene (Sesquiterpene), Camphene, Dipentene, Pinene, Phellandrene (Terpenes), Oilibanol (Alcohol).

Emotional Properties

Frankincense is the "it will be alright tomorrow" oil. It promotes a feeling of positivity that can clear the mind and relax. This makes Frankincense ideal for nighttime when you can't stop thinking about things and just need to turn off and deal with it tomorrow. It is also these very properties which make frankincense the oil of choice historically for meditation.

Skin Properties

Frankincense has traditionally been used as an anti-wrinkle ingredient. It encourages the skin to renew and helps soften and smooth the skin, making it ideal for aged skin. The rejuvenating properties make Frankincense ideal for sores, carbuncles, wounds, scars and skin inflammation.

Respiratory System

Frankincense helps with shortness of breath, asthma and bronchitis.

Muscular System

Frankincense has a positive effect on rheumatism and arthritis and is ideal for use in blends dealing with muscular aches and pains.