Frankincense essential oil | Boswellia serrata

Traditional use: Out of all the trees that we can find on our path, frankincense is certainly one of a kind. It is quite popular but not because of its gigantic size nor because of its distinctive leaf shape. It is highly valued for a specific, deep aroma and health-promoting properties that it provides. The first mentions about frankincense can be found in ancient texts of Ayurveda and the Bible. Experts in biblical studies suggest that the frankincense offered to the baby Jesus by one of the kings indeed contained the Boswellia serrata trees that were used during rituals and ceremonies in different parts of Asia. Frankincense resin gained popularity in natural medicine – especially in India. Essential oil extracted from the resin traditionally has been used in order to reduce pains of different origin. Some people noted that it effectively reduces muscle tension which makes it a great addition to other massage oils. It is worth mentioning that frankincense oil supports proper functioning of the respiratory system and helps to clear the airways from the mucus that builds up during the infection. What is more, the oil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties which makes it a noteworthy addition to prevention of upper-respiratory tract infections. In cosmetics, frankincense is used to neutralize free radicals, reduce acne and wrinkles and give the skin a radiant, young look. The aroma of frankincense essential oil is warm and deep, a little fruity with herbal and woody notes.

Occurrence: Indian Frankincense (Boswellia serrata) is a tree belonging to the group of Burseraceae. Its size is average, but the upper branches are relatively wide. Naturally it is present in the tropical climate of India and Pakistan where it grows on slopes and tops of the hills up to 1150 m above sea level. It is well resistant to droughts and high temperatures. The herbal resource is a resin extracted from the trunk of this tree which is also then used to obtain essential oils. The oil available in our stock is produced from the trees that grow in India.

Biochemistry: Frankincense oil contains many active substances with the highest amount of mono- and diterpenes, ethyl acetate, octyl acetate as well as methylanisole.

The oil available in our shop is produced with a method of steam distillation from frankincense resin. Thanks to that every drop is optimally condensed and has an aroma bouquet unique for this plant.

Aroma: Base note of medium intensity and good durability.

Fun fact: Some people considered frankincense resin a magical resource. In ancient India, Persia, Babylon and Egypt it was a popular belief that the aroma and smoke coming from the frankincense resin helps to cleanse the surroundings, repelling bad spirits and bringing the good ones. Because of that, it was mainly used in temples during spiritual ceremonies.