Frankincense essential oil has long been used in aromatherapy because of its healing and therapeutic properties. Namely, it has been used as a natural remedy as a result of its anti-neurotic, antiseptic, expectorant, and anti-cancer properties. The boswellic acids present in the oil have strong anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation.
Top 5 Frankincense Oil Health Benefits and Uses:
– Acts as an All-Natural Oral Hygiene Product
The antiseptic properties of the oil make it an incredible product for oral hygiene. You should add some frankincense to your regular toothpaste or rub a couple of drops into your gums to prevent dental health problems such as oral infections, cavities, bad breath, and tooth decay. It has also been found that the anti-inflammatory properties of frankincense extracts can fight plaque-related gingivitis, which is a common type of gum disease characterized by swelling, irritation, and redness.
– Alleviates Gastrointestinal Discomfort
Frankincense oil can help alleviate digestive distress like irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, gas, and stomach aches. The European Journal of Medical Research published a study that tested the effectiveness of this oil in relieving the symptoms of ulcerative colitis. The results showed that taking 350 milligrams of the oil 3 times daily for 6 weeks stimulated remission in about 80% of participants.
Furthermore, the same study also showed that the effects of frankincense oil are similar to a chemical drug known as sulfasalazine used in the treatment of irritable bowel disease.
It has also been found that frankincense can help accelerate the digestion of food, and improve the function of the entire digestive system.
– Provides Arthritic Pain Relief
The powerful anti-inflammatory properties of frankincense oil can help block the production of the main inflammatory molecules connected to conditions such as arthritis. As a result of this, this oil can also help prevent cartilage tissue breakdown.
Specifically, the first two pillars of Ayurveda describe the anti-arthritic properties of frankincense extracts. Many studies have confirmed that non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can often lead to many adverse side effects like a higher risk of heart failure, joint and gastrointestinal damage. However, the boswellic acids found in frankincense essential oil have been proven to be as effective as these pharmaceutical drugs, but without casing any adverse side effects.
By applying 2-3 drops of the oil topically to the painful area you can alleviate arthritis symptoms. But, in case you have sensitive skin, mix some frankincense with a carrier oil such as coconut oil, and then apply it to the painful area. Also, you can alleviate joint and muscle pain by adding 5-10 drops to a warm bath.
– Helps in the Treatment of Many Respiratory Conditions
Frankincense oil can help in the treatment of a number of respiratory conditions, including asthma, coughs, and bronchitis though its use in steam inhalations, massages, and baths. The European Journal of Medical Research published a study in which participants suffering from chronic bronchial asthma took 300 milligrams of frankincense 3 times a day within a period of 6 weeks.
Approximately 70% of patients had a significant improvement in physical symptoms of asthma, such as the number of attacks, difficulty breathing, and hissing lung sound. Consequently, researchers concluded that this oil can offer beneficial effects in bronchial asthma treatment.
– Helps Treat Cancer and Reduce the Side Effects Triggered by Chemotherapy
Frankincense essential oil may help fight many types of cancer cells, such as stomach, colon, breast, brain, prostate, and pancreatic cancers. The oil has been found to activate genes responsible for cell growth suppression, cell cycle arrest, and apoptosis in cancer cells.
It may also differentiate cancer from normal cells. A study has proven that frankincense oil inhibited cell viability in bladder cancer cells without contributing to DNA breakdown that is a hallmark of apoptosis. This type of oil may fight cancer as well as decrease cancer symptoms by reducing inflammation, stimulating white blood cell proliferation, and strengthening the immune system.
That’s not all, frankincense oil can also be used to lower anxiety, fight infections, and treat skin problems such as scarring and acne. Keep in mind that if you want to take the oil orally, you have to ensure that it is 100% pure, organic, therapeutic grade and bought from a trustworthy and reliable company.
Note: Avoid taking essential oils orally unless adequately trained in the safety issues of doing so, or under the supervision of a professional aromatherapist.
