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The Healing Power of Frankincense
Frankincense, also known as olibanum, is an aromatic resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia in the family Burseraceae.
The word is derived from the French “franc encens” (“high-quality/ original incense”). Another name, olibanum, is cognate with the name of Lebanon, which derives from the word for “white” or “milk”. This is regarded as a reference to the snow-capped Mount Lebanon, a symbol of the ancient spice trading routes.
BOSWELLIA TREES
Only three species of Boswellia are described as producing true frankincense. They grow in specific geographic areas: Boswellia sacra (Arabic Peninsula), Boswellia carteri (synonym for Boswellia sacra – Horn of Africa), Boswellia serrata (India), and Boswellia papyrifera (Ethiopia, Sudan).
Frankincense as a precious natural remedy is documented across all major medicinal traditions since about 5000 years ago.
Within Traditional Chinese medicine, frankincense has been employed for enhancing blood circulation and mitigating inflammation, in Ayurvedic medicine for the treatment of arthritis and asthma, in Persian medicinefor diabetes and digestive disorders, and in ancient Egypt, the resin served as a conserving agent for mummification.
Until the present day, frankincense makes up part of Christian ceremonies, being introduced in Europe during the Crusades in the Middle Ages.
Fumigated frankincense has been used for cleansing, blessings, prayers, and protection against evil.
Frankincense is mentioned in ancient scripts. In the New Testament, one of the magi presented olibanum along with myrrh and gold to the newborn Christ Child.
Valuable MEDICINE
Frankincense is the most important resinous medicine ever described.
In general, resin represents an immune system of a tree. The more demanding the natural environment, the higher the medicinal value of the plants.
This is why trees of the genus Boswellia, which are grown in arduous desert areas, are so highly valued.
Since the important medicinal properties are mostly attributed to the high content of terpenes, frankincense presents with anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, pain-releasing, immunomodulatory, antioxidative, and anti-cancer properties.
MEDICAL PURPOSE
The resin is used in the treatment of gastrointestinal inflammatory disorders (gastric ulcers, irritable bowel, and colitis), in joint problems (rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis), neurodegenerative diseases (multiple sclerosis, parkinsonism), injury-induced cerebral edema, chronic and acute respiratory diseases (asthma, sinusitis, bronchitis), or in treatment of multi-resistant bacterial infections (wound-care, general infections).
Frankincense promotes digestion, enhances appetite, inhibits gastric pain, and eliminates intestinal gases. It also shows benefits in the treatment of gingivitis, psoriasis, eczema, and other skin problems.
The aromatic essences are used for psycho-emotional conditions, such as stress, anxiety, depression, or agitated states of mind, and for headache and insomnia.
SPIRITUAL TRADITIONS
Olibanum is often regarded as a sacred scent and spiritually uplifting remedy.
The incense is connected with the sun and solar energy, sometimes being called “crystallized drops of sunlight”.
Fumigation with olibanum has been used in various cultures to treat a wide range
of psychological and emotional disorders. Aromatherapy with olibanum is used to promote calmness, serenity, and a relaxed state of mind. It is considered to encourage connection with the inner self and the divinity through deep introspection.
Forms of use:
You can use frankincense in different forms:
- Fumigated raw resin: cleansing effect on the respiratory tract. Inhalation further eliminates headaches and regulates insomnia.
- Essential oil: can be used for aromatherapy or if added to carrying oils or ointments, for skin infections, allergies, and eczema.
- Chewing gum: serves as a mouth disinfectant and anti-inflammation remedy.
- Dissolved in water: promotes digestion and prevents digestive sickness.
- Tincture (resin dissolved in alcohol): can by locally applied for wound care. Can be also used internally as a general anti-infectious remedy and immunity booster.
- Frankincense oil and ointment: promotes wound healing and eliminates pain and inflammation in joint problems.
If you like to experience the precious benefits of frankincense originating from the valuable Boswellia sacra trees from Oman, be welcome to explore our Mehana Herbals Frankincense Edition.
Author: Kristina Höschlová
Posted on April 13th, 2024
