Frankincense Essential Oil (pure)

Latin name: Boswellia Carterii

Part of the plant used: resin

Source: Somalia

Extraction method: steam distillation

Frankincense essential oil is steam-distilled from the resin of the Boswellia carterii tree, a member of the Burseraceae family, and is also known as Olibanum. The word is derived from the French word "franc" meaning "luxuriant," and was, along with myrrh, the first gum used as incense. The tree is native to the Middle East and is said to exist in the natural bonsai formation in that dry soil. Frankincense is said to symbolize divinity.

This oil is the most popular in aromatherapy for its calming properties. It is said to help heal wounds and prevent scarring. It is used to tone the face, remove wrinkles, and prevent stretch marks in cosmetic products. Frankincense essential oil has been used to relieve anxiety, stress, asthma, bronchitis, laryngitis, and severe coughs. It is a general tonic for the uterus, has a calming effect during childbirth, and helps relieve heavy menstruation. It is most useful during meditation. Avoid during pregnancy.

The ancient Egyptians burned frankincense as sacred incense and used it as a facial mask. They ground the burned resin into a powder called kohl, used to highlight the eyes. Kohl-lined eyes are commonly seen in Egyptian art. The first record of incense use was found in an inscription in the tomb of the 15th-century BC Egyptian queen Hatshepsut. It was used to fumigate the sick, to banish evil spirits.