Ask an aromatherapist what the most ‘essential’ Essential Oil is in their collection and they will likely tell you it’s Lavender. Ask for the second most 'essential' Oil and they might say it’s Frankincense.
Regarded as ‘the King of Oils’, the history and healing powers of Frankincense Oil (Boswellia carterii) will amaze you. It’s an aromatic tool that’s been used for centuries which you definitely need in your wellness toolbox!
From where does Frankincense originate and how is it harvested?
Frankincense is sourced from the Boswellia Tree, native to Africa and the Middle East. Precious resin is carefully sapped and scraped from the tree bark, then the oil is extracted via steam distillation – a practice that’s been maintained for more than 6000 years.
This time-honoured method ensures all vital therapeutic compounds in the oil are preserved. The scent is warm and balsamic, spicy and woody, with a hint of lemon.
Frankincense was traditionally used in religious ceremonies, in perfumes and, most importantly, as medicine.
Alain Touwaide, a historian of medicine at the Institute for the Preservation of Medical Traditions and the Smithsonian Institution says, “We have textual and archaeological evidence that Frankincense was used as medicinal substances in antiquity.” Thousands of years ago, Frankincense was traded around the Middle East and Africa, and to the Romans and Greeks. In Ancient Egypt, embalmers stuffed it inside the bodies and tombs of pharaohs and queens. Rabbi’s burned it as offerings in Jerusalem’s temples. And Christians well know that the wise men gifted Frankincense to the newborn Jesus Christ, along with Myrrh and gold. What you might not believe – but it’s true – is that the Frankincense was more valuable than the gold!
So what does this magical ‘King of Oils’ offer us therapeutically today?
Frankincense Pure Essential Oil is generally refreshing, soothing and comforting, helping to calm the mind and dispel mild anxiety. It helps to alleviate nasal congestion caused by colds and flu, hay fever, catarrh and sinusitis. It may help ease the pain associated with a heavy menstrual cycle, providing relief from cramps and spasms. It’s suitable for topically managing minor wounds, blemishes and mild skin infections, and is of particular benefit to sensitive or ageing skin as it helps to maintain the skin's softness and elasticity. It’s also great for focus, which makes it ideal for use during yoga or meditation. These are just some of the benefits based on accumulated knowledge of the way this oil has been used in traditional aromatherapy.
Dr. Eric Zeilinski, author of ‘The Healing Powers of Essential Oils’ says, “Frankincense has anti-inflammatory properties that could help support the immune system. Because it contains boswellic acids, Frankincense extract contains more prominent and specific immune-modulating properties. These acids potentially bolster your white blood cells (which protect you from disease), so they get into fighting shape.”
Frankincense is a powerful Essential Oil used on its own, but also blends particularly well with Geranium, Lavender, Orange and Sandalwood.
Look for the AUST L
LeRêve has been a market leader in Aromatherapy for more than 25 years. When you purchase a LeRêve Pure Essential Oil – single or blend – you’re investing in the very best. Our Essential Oils are 100% natural, sourced from plants grown in pristine environments and extracted to retain the highest levels of aromatic and therapeutic constituents.
FACT – Essential Oils that do not have an Aust L number printed on the carton and label, are not guaranteed to be pure and free of synthetics, and are cosmetic in nature with no therapeutic benefits.
Every LeRêve Pure Essential Oil and Oil Blend is listed on the Australian Register of Therapeutic Goods (ARTG) and is manufactured according to a strict code of Good Manufacturing Practice, guaranteeing the purity of our premium grade oils.
