Essential Oil 50ml - Frankincense (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, of the Burseraceae family, and is also known as Olibanum. The word is derived from the French franc meaning opulent, and it was, along with myrrh, the first gum to be used as incense. The tree is indigenous to the Middle East, and is said to exist in natural bonsai formation in that dry land. Frankincense is said to symbolise divinity.

This oil is 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 heavy coughing. It is a general tonic for the uterus, has a calming effect during labour 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 face mask. They ground the charred resin into a powder called kohl, used to highlight the eyes. Kohl-lined eyes are commonly seen in Egyptian art. The first record of frankincense use was found in an inscription on the tomb of Egyptian Queen Hatshepsut from the 15th century BC. It was used to fumigate the sick, to banish evil spirits.