Frankincense
Common Name: Frankincense, Organic
Being organic, this essential oil is sourced from plants or herbs cultivated and processed using organic principles.
Botanical Name: Boswellia serrata, Organic
Synonyms: Olibanum
Family: Burseraceae
There are several different species of Frankincense commonly used. Each species has its own chemical & action profile. Always make sure you know which species you are using, species specific safety precautions and that it contains the properties you wish to utilize.
Chemical Composition includes
a-thujene @ 26.2 – 47.4%
a-pinene @ 0-011.2%
20+ monoterpenes
28+ sesquiterpenes
Precautions / Contraindications
Reported to be nontoxic, non-irritant, and non-sensitizing.
GRAS status
No known contraindications
Old or oxidized oils should be avoided.
Skin sensitization possible if oxidized
As with all essential oils, taking internally, ingesting or adding to food / beverages is not recommended and can cause harm.
Keep all essential oils out of the reach of children, lids secured in a cool dark location.
Actions commonly cited in aromatherapy:
The actions cited within this profile are not guaranteed in every situation; they are examples of what we can expect from each oil. They are based on scientific analysis of each oils unique chemical composition and knowledge of the expected actions of those components, lab & clinical studies, historical & traditional uses, and firsthand & anecdotal experiences.
Analgesic
Anti arthritic
Antibacterial but not anti fungal
Antidepressant – nervous dysregulation, tension & exhaustion
Anti inflammatory
Antiseptic
Astringent
Carminative
Cicatrisant
Expectorant
Immune system support
Sedative
Vulnerary
Recommended for joint & muscular aches and pains
Wound healing
Skin care – dry, mature skin, wrinkles & scars
Not sure what something means – check the Glossary here.
Please reach out if you want to better understand how essential oils work, have any questions or see how they may be right for you.
Mental & Emotional Actions commonly cited in aromatherapy
Frankincense has a complex chemical profile containing both sesquiterpenes which are calming or soothing and monoterpenes which provide mental stimulating actions.
Helpful tool in palliative care, grief, reconnecting to our body in situations of trauma, spiritual shock or loss. Nervous tension, stress related conditions, restlessness, grief, anxiety, mental confusion, nervous depression
Sense of maturity, confidence, eccentric, may prefer their own methods, efficiency, blunt, down to earth, practical, mysterious, spiritual, mystic, some understanding of the nature of the universe.
When in the shadows, can be destructive, bitter, blunt, skeptical, cynical, guilt ridden, insecure & uncertain. However, have the emotional maturity to recognize what is happening and make a conscious effort to change poison into medicine / negative to positive. Good communicator, steady, upright citizens, command respect & honor, may sense positive business dealings
Very much connected to spirituality, subtle / not necessarily religious but spiritual endeavors, grounding, quietens the mind yet elevating in a spiritual connection.
Deepens our breath, calms and focuses our mind, opens consciousness’ to make clear, direct contact with spirit / divine / universe. Creates and enhances a mindful meditative focus to experience, receive and integrate healing energy and guidance.
Actions supported by clinical studies
Antidepressant
Antiseptic
Expectorant
Sedative
Traditionally used with special connections to religious, spiritual, meditative practices & intentions
Chakra: All – base, solar plexus while balancing upper chakras
Earth element / harmonize with metal element
Myers Briggs: INTJ – very responsible, dependable, people of few words, punctual, precise, fastidious, deep concentration, modes, unassuming, down to earth, resistant to change, devoted in relationships
Aromatic Note: Base
Oil & Aromatic Description: Aroma can be described as being spicy, sweet, green, woody, calming, grounding, balancing.
Blends well with: citrus oils, woody / forest
Mental Clarity / focus – bergamot, lemon, cold pressed lime, pine, spruce, rosemary
Spirituality – Roman chamomile, lemon, myrrh, patchouli, pine, sandalwood
Not sure what something means – check the Glossary here
Method of Extraction: Steam distilled
Parts Used: Frankincense is a natural gum-resin formed from the exudate (sap, blood, resin) of the bark from the Boswellia tree.
Country of Origin: Western India
Please reach out if you want to better understand how essential oils work, have any questions or see how they may be right for you.
As a Trained Aromatherapist, the services, recommendations and products offered by Robson Valley Aromatherapy are that of a complementary nature only and in no way replace medical advice or treatment of any other modality. I do not provide diagnostic services, make any curative claims, or prescribe medications. Clients are provided with information on how & why recommendations are made, appropriate methods of using essential oils, and encouraged to make educated decisions on the safe & effective use of essential oils. I do not recommend or support the use of essential oils internally.
References:
Salvatore Battaglia – The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy – Volume 1 – Third edition
Robert Tisserand, Rodney Young – Essential Oil Safety – Second Edition