Organic Frankincense Resin - Tears (Boswellia spp.)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Frankincense Resin (Boswellia spp.)

Family: Burseraceae

Common Names: Olibanum, Luban, Boswellia

Botanical Description: Frankincense is a resin obtained from the Boswellia tree, which is a small deciduous tree with papery bark and compound leaves. The tree produces clusters of small, white to pale pink flowers. The resin is harvested by making incisions in the bark, allowing the sap to ooze out and harden into a gum-like substance.

Habitat and Cultivation: Frankincense trees are native to the arid regions of the Arabian Peninsula, particularly Oman, Yemen, and Somalia, as well as parts of India. They thrive in rocky, dry soils, often in mountainous regions.

Parts Used: Resin (dried sap)

Historical and Folklore Uses:

Frankincense has been used for thousands of years, particularly in religious and spiritual ceremonies. It was highly valued in ancient Egypt, where it was used in incense, cosmetics, and as an offering to the gods. Frankincense is also mentioned in many ancient texts, including the Bible, where it was one of the gifts given to the infant Jesus.

Energetics and Taste:

• Energetics: Warming, drying
• Taste: Bitter, aromatic

Medicinal Actions:

• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation in the body, particularly in joints and the digestive system.
• Analgesic: Provides pain relief, especially for arthritic conditions.
• Antimicrobial: Helps to combat infections, including bacterial and fungal.
• Expectorant: Aids in clearing mucus from the respiratory tract.
• Astringent: Tightens tissues, making it useful for wound healing and skin care.

System Affinities:

• Musculoskeletal System: Frankincense is renowned for its use in treating inflammatory conditions like arthritis and joint pain.
• Respiratory System: It is used to support lung health, especially in conditions involving excessive mucus or inflammation, such as asthma and bronchitis.
• Skin: Frankincense is used in skin care for its wound-healing properties, as well as for reducing scars and wrinkles.
• Immune System: It supports immune function and helps in managing chronic inflammatory diseases.

Active Compounds:

• Boswellic Acids: The primary anti-inflammatory compounds found in frankincense, particularly effective in treating arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.
• Alpha-Pinene: A compound with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to frankincense's effects on respiratory health.
• Incensole Acetate: A compound thought to have mood-enhancing and anti-depressant effects.

Uses:

1. Arthritis and Joint Pain: Frankincense resin is commonly used in the form of supplements or topical ointments to relieve joint pain and inflammation.
2. Respiratory Health: Frankincense is often used in aromatherapy or as an inhalant to support respiratory health, particularly in conditions like asthma or bronchitis.
3. Skin Care: The resin or its oil is used to treat wounds, scars, and wrinkles, promoting overall skin health.
4. Immune Support: Frankincense is used to modulate the immune system, making it beneficial for autoimmune conditions and chronic inflammatory diseases.
5. Stress Relief: Used in aromatherapy, frankincense is known for its calming and mood-enhancing properties.

Cautions:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: While generally considered safe, it's best to consult with a healthcare provider before using frankincense during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Drug Interactions: Frankincense may interact with certain medications, particularly anticoagulants or anti-inflammatory drugs. Consult a healthcare provider if taking such medications.

Research and Studies:

1. A study published in Arthritis Research & Therapy demonstrated the effectiveness of boswellic acids from frankincense in reducing inflammation and improving symptoms in patients with osteoarthritis .
2. Another study in Journal of Ethnopharmacology confirmed frankincense’s ability to support respiratory health by reducing airway inflammation in asthma .
3. Research in Planta Medica highlighted the wound-healing properties of frankincense, supporting its traditional use in skin care .