Frankincense: Nature's Elixir for Skin, Mind, and Body. Discover how this ancient oil can help with everything from pregnancy to cancer treatment.
Frankincense Benefits
Frankincense is a plant-based substance rich in medicinal properties. Today, frankincense is used in various forms including edible, oil, topical, and inhalation applications.
Some of the properties of frankincense include:
1. Strengthening Gum and Freshening Breath
Chewing frankincense, similar to chewing gum, helps to strengthen the gums. This eliminates harmful bacteria in the mouth. Chewing frankincense firms up the teeth, expels phlegm, and removes bad breath. Chew pea-sized pieces of frankincense daily. Frankincense can be used as a substitute for chewing gum. This bitter gum yields sweet results.
Frankincense maintains oral hygiene, prevents bad breath, toothaches, cavities, and mouth sores. Frankincense may help improve oral hygiene and prevent gum disease. The boswellic acids it provides appear to have strong antibacterial properties, which may help prevent and treat oral infections.
One study found that frankincense oil can fight the bacteria responsible for serious gum disease.
Being naturally astringent, it can aid in the healing of mouth sores related to poor oral health. Frankincense contains a high amount of nutrients that strengthen the gums. Chewing this plant extract is highly recommended for treating gum infections.
Frankincense enhances memory and increases intelligence and is also useful for treating forgetfulness. Traditional medicine practitioners emphasize its use primarily for its effects on memory enhancement. Frankincense improves blood circulation in the brain, which may reduce the risk of Alzheimer's, improve memory, and boost brain function and intelligence.
It can help prevent brain diseases such as Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and short-term memory loss, and improve nerve health. Frankincense’s memory-enhancing properties are especially beneficial for older individuals who are prone to neurological conditions. Adults who do not have a warm and dry temperament can use frankincense to strengthen memory. To maximize the benefits for memory enhancement, frankincense can be consumed on an empty stomach in the morning, along with honey or raisins.
3. Anti-Cancer Properties of Frankincense
Boswellic acids, the active component in frankincense, have demonstrated promising results for patients with cancer.
Therefore, frankincense is considered to be among the plants with significant anti-cancer properties. Studies indicate that the acids in frankincense limit cancer growth by inhibiting DNA formation in cancer cells. Additionally, some research suggests that frankincense oil can distinguish between cancerous and normal cells, targeting only the cancer cells for destruction. Research has shown that frankincense can combat cancer cells in the breast, prostate, pancreas, skin, and colon.
Frankincense fights specific types of cancer, including brain tumors, breast cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, skin cancer, colon cancer, and melanoma.
Researchers at MUSC Hollings Cancer Center provided breast cancer patients with an extract of the Boswellia tree – probably best known as the source of frankincense – and instructed them to take it each day until surgery. The researchers then compared the activity of cancer cells in each woman’s tumor removed during surgery with the activity in the piece of her tumor that was removed during the biopsy.“We looked at differences in the growth rate of the tumors before and after treatment, and we found that the tumors after treatment had a lower growth rate compared to before treatment,” said Nancy Klauber-DeMore, M.D., a surgical oncologist and co-leader of the Developmental Cancer Therapeutics research program at Hollings Cancer Center.The team also looked at biopsy and tumor samples of women who didn’t take the Boswellia extract.“We saw a statistically significant reduction in tumor proliferation compared to the non-treated group, so the implications are that Boswellia, this extract of frankincense, does have anti-cancer activity in humans,” Klauber-DeMore said.
Bladder Cancer Treatment
Frankincense gum extract can eliminate cancer cells in the bladder without affecting healthy cells.
British researchers discovered that One such agent is acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), derived from the gum resin of the Boswellia serrata known as Salai guggal or Indian frankincense, treats advanced ovarian cancer. This compound is known for its effectiveness in combating cancer cells.
4. Reduction of Radiation Therapy Side Effects
One of the most common issues patients face after radiation therapy is severe skin redness and inflammation. Using creams containing frankincense is one way to reduce these side effects.
5. Leukemia Treatment
Studies indicate that frankincense gum extract is effective in treating acute myeloid leukemia (AML). AML is a type of cancer that primarily affects the bone marrow, leading to the transformation of white blood cells into cancerous cells. Research has shown that frankincense gum extract can significantly increase cancer cell death by up to 20%.
6. Wound Healing
Many practitioners believe that individuals with slow-healing wounds can aid faster recovery by sucking or chewing a pea-sized quantity of frankincense daily for 3 to 4 days. This practice is thought to help speed up the healing process of wounds.
7. Arthritis Improvement
Frankincense is an anti-inflammatory substance that can help reduce pain and symptoms associated with arthritis. It not only alleviates pain but also targets the inflammation itself. Boswellic acids can inhibit the release of leukotrienes, which are pro-inflammatory. Frankincense has been found to be more effective than placebo in managing swelling, pain, and joint mobility related to arthritis. Frankincense oil can be useful for reducing morning stiffness and may also help decrease reliance on NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). It can be used both topically on inflamed muscles and joints and taken orally.
Oral and topical boswellic acids in frankincense can significantly reduce cartilage loss and joint inflammation caused by arthritis. This natural supplement alleviates inflammation, joint pain, and stiffness in mild to moderate knee arthritis without serious side effects.
A preliminary study investigated the safety and efficacy of frankincense extract on arthritis symptoms. Forty-eight patients with osteoarthritis were given frankincense extract or a placebo for 120 days. Researchers observed improvements in knee joint gap and a reduction in C-reactive protein levels, a marker associated with knee osteoarthritis.
According to information from PubMed (National Institutes of Health), research shows that:
Significant synovial concentration and therapeutic efficacy can be achieved with topical boswellic acid treatment. These findings suggest that boswellic acid has potential as a disease-modifying agent in OA.
8. Managing Diabetes
Another benefit of frankincense is its role in improving diabetes. Studies have shown that consuming 800 mg of frankincense daily after meals can improve blood sugar and cholesterol levels in patients with type 2 diabetes.
A study was conducted to observe the effects of frankincense gum resin on blood glucose levels and lipid profiles in fifty-six diabetic patients. The resin was administered twice daily for eight weeks alongside their standard anti-diabetic treatments. Researchers observed a significant reduction in blood glucose levels. Another study examined the anti-diabetic effects of Boswellia serrata (frankincense extract) on diabetic female rats. Administering doses of 200, 400, and 600 mg/kg of Boswellia extract for seventeen days resulted in a decrease in blood glucose levels.
9. Hair Loss Reduction
Frankincense consumption increases blood circulation to the scalp and strengthens hair follicles, helping to prevent hair loss.
10. Boosting Metabolism and Weight Loss
Frankincense can give your metabolism a boost while helping to detoxify your body, especially your gut. It's also known to balance hormones, including thyroid function. These qualities make it a potential aid in weight loss.
While frankincense can be a supportive addition to a weight loss plan, it's important to remember that healthy eating and exercise are still key. The compound galglesterone in frankincense might help by supporting thyroid health, which can influence metabolism and fat burning.
11. Maintaining Digestive Health
Frankincense directly reduces intestinal inflammation, which is linked to many digestive issues such as irritable bowel syndrome, constipation, and stomach discomfort. By alleviating this inflammation, thanks to boswellic acids, it can improve nutrient absorption in the digestive system and reduce symptoms like diarrhea, bloating, and cramping. Additionally, frankincense lowers the risk of developing stomach ulcers and other chronic digestive diseases.
To aid in digestive health and improve food digestion, chew a pea-sized amount of frankincense or take powdered frankincense mixed with honey and water after meals.
12. Reducing Symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Frankincense appears effective in reducing symptoms of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis (two inflammatory bowel diseases). Studies have shown that frankincense can improve symptoms of ulcerative colitis, a form of inflammatory bowel disease affecting the colon, including the rectum. In some individuals, frankincense works comparably to sulfasalazine (an anti-inflammatory gastrointestinal drug), reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis by 70 to 82%. Additionally, daily consumption of 900-1050 mg of frankincense for six weeks has proven effective for chronic ulcerative colitis with minimal side effects.
The anti-inflammatory properties of frankincense also support proper bowel function. Extensive studies have indicated that, when combined with other herbal medications, frankincense can alleviate abdominal pain, bloating, and even depression and anxiety in individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Frankincense is particularly effective in reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis, one of the major inflammatory bowel diseases.
Research on the efficacy and safety of frankincense supplements for patients with mild irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has been conducted. While 34 individuals were given standard medications for abdominal pain, 35 others received frankincense supplements for six months. Results showed that the group receiving frankincense supplements reported a slight reduction in self-reported symptoms and a decreased need for standard medications, indicating positive outcomes for IBS management with frankincense.
Research from the World Journal of Gastroenterology
The anti-inflammatory effects of boswellia may also be beneficial for people with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease.A study in the World Journal of GastroenterologyTrusted Source looked into the action of these compounds. In animal models, boswellic acids improved markers of IBD without causing adverse effects on the surrounding organs. They may, therefore, prove to be a useful supportive treatment for these chronic conditions.
13. Diarrhea and Vomiting Relief
Consuming frankincense with cold water can help alleviate diarrhea and stop vomiting.
14. Lung Health
The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties of frankincense help reduce bronchial infections in the lungs. By decreasing inflammation and relieving blood vessel congestion, it supports lung health. It also prevents internal bleeding in the lungs, alleviates asthma symptoms, and helps control asthma attacks.
15. Improvement of Asthma
Traditional medicine has used frankincense for centuries to treat bronchitis and asthma. Research indicates that frankincense compounds can inhibit leukotriene production and reduce bronchial muscle contraction in asthma. Additionally, frankincense may affect Th2 cytokines and help regulate excessive mucus production in asthma patients.
A study investigated the effects of boswellia extract combined with corticosteroids on asthma patients. Thirty-two asthma patients were given 500 mg of boswellia extract daily along with corticosteroids for four weeks. Patients were also asked to monitor their daily inhalations. After four weeks, researchers observed a reduction in the number of inhalations among the patients. This study shows promising results regarding the impact of frankincense on asthma, though further research is needed to confirm these findings.
16. Enhancing Fertility
Oral consumption of frankincense can enhance fertility. A study found that frankincense supplements increase the likelihood of pregnancy in women. However, research on this topic is still incomplete. Frankincense helps regulate the body’s estrogen levels and may delay menopause in women. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is a common issue among women, causing symptoms such as depression, stress, irritability, headaches, and body aches during this period. Consuming frankincense water can also help alleviate these symptoms.
17. Pregnancy
Consumption of frankincense during pregnancy can affect the baby's memory. Pregnant women should chew frankincense or consume its water only in the fifth month of pregnancy to enhance the intelligence and memory of the fetus. (Take a quantity equivalent to a lentil daily, not exceeding one month.)
18. Treating Hoarseness
If you are experiencing hoarseness, incorporating frankincense into your routine may help gradually restore your voice. Consuming frankincense resin can reduce voice roughness and smoothen it. Frankincense can also alleviate mucus and post-nasal drip, thereby reducing voice hoarseness.
19. Reducing Blood Fat and Blood Sugar
Research has shown that daily consumption of 800 mg of frankincense after each meal helps lower blood fat levels and, consequently, affects blood sugar levels as well. Therefore, frankincense can be beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
20. Anti-Aging
Frankincense is a potent antioxidant, which is why it has anti-aging properties. Antioxidants help combat free radicals, which are highly reactive molecules with unpaired electrons. As free radicals move throughout the body in search of an electron to pair with, they can damage DNA, accelerating the aging process. Additionally, antioxidants help slow down and prevent damage caused by free radicals, contributing to skin rejuvenation. Frankincense also contains brain-rejuvenating vitamins such as A, E, C, K2, and B vitamins.
21. Stress and Depression
Another benefit of frankincense is its ability to reduce stress.
22. Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
Premenstrual syndrome is a common issue among women, causing symptoms such as depression, stress, irritability, headaches, and body aches. Consuming frankincense can help alleviate these symptoms.
23. Sexual Issues
Frankincense is known to enhance sexual desire by improving sperm quality, thereby increasing fertility chances. Additionally, it is effective in treating premature ejaculation.
24. Treatment for Premature Ejaculation
Frankincense is a well-known traditional remedy for premature ejaculation, and its effectiveness has been established. The recommended method is to chew a small amount of frankincense slowly until the resin is fully extracted. After 4 to 5 minutes, discard the remaining resin, which will have a gum-like consistency. Despite its bitter taste, the valuable properties of frankincense may change your perception of it.
25. Strengthening the Immune System
Frankincense can impact lymphocytes and T-cells, which are critical components of the immune system. These cells influence the intensity and duration of the immune response. Regular consumption of frankincense can optimize the immune system's ability to respond more effectively to foreign substances and infectious pathogens. For individuals with a weak immune system, this can help reduce frequent illnesses. Taking frankincense capsules or applying the oil to the soles of the feet can enhance immune function and contribute to a healthier life.
26. Liver Health
Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, frankincense is well-suited for improving liver health. Traditional medicine uses frankincense to address liver and kidney issues. This herbal extract also has antioxidant properties, which are beneficial for detoxifying the body, especially the liver. Reducing body toxins supports better liver and kidney function.
27. Cardiovascular Health
Frankincense is also useful in lowering blood triglycerides and cholesterol levels, which can be effective in preventing cardiovascular diseases. It helps reduce and control cholesterol and triglyceride levels. This property protects against issues related to high cholesterol, such as atherosclerosis, and is beneficial for heart health. Frankincense can aid in treating heart enlargement and strengthening heart muscles.
Clinical Research on Frankincense combination Properties
Clinical research indicates that frankincense, alone or in combination formulas, may be beneficial for gingivitis, asthma, diabetes, irritable bowel syndrome, collagenous colitis, Crohn’s disease, urinary tract infection, stress urinary incontinence, breast density, mastalgia, menorrhagia, osteoarthritis (OA), memory impairment, psoriasis, eczema, photoaging, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy, and radiation-induced brain edema.
External Sources
- Oral and topical boswellic acid attenuates mouse osteoarthritis
- What to know about boswellia
- Hollings researchers find Boswellia, an extract of frankincense, shows anti-cancer activity in patients with breast cancer
- Frankincense/Boswellia (Boswellia serrata/sacra/carterii)
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