Frankincense is a common type of essential oil used in aromatherapy that can offer a variety of health benefits, including helping relieve chronic stress and anxiety, reducing pain and inflammation, and boosting immunity. Frankincense, also known as olibanum, is made from the resin of the Boswellia tree. This tree typically grows in the dry, mountainous regions of India, Africa, and the Middle East.
What are the health benefits of frankincense oil?
• Osteoarthritis – Frankincense has anti-inflammatory effects that may help reduce joint inflammation caused by arthritis. Researchers believe that frankincense can prevent the release of leukotrienes, which are compounds that can cause inflammation. Frankincense’s anti-inflammatory effects may also assist in reducing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Gut health – Frankincense’s anti-inflammatory properties may also help your gut function properly. A study showed Frankincense reduced abdominal pain, bloating, and even associated depression and anxiety in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This resin appears particularly effective at reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis; one of the main inflammatory gut conditions.
• Improves Asthma – Traditional medicine has used frankincense to treat bronchitis and asthma for centuries. Research suggests that its compounds may prevent the production of leukotrienes, which cause the bronchial muscles to constrict in asthma. Frankincense may also affect Th2 cytokines, which can cause inflammation and mucus overproduction in people with asthma.
• Anti-cancer properties – Frankincense is found to be helpful in the prevention of breast, cancer, prostate cancer, and colon cancer. Studies show that frankincense may have anticancer effects. So far, studies suggest that frankincense may fight breast, prostate, pancreatic, skin, and colon cancer cells. It may also help reduce the side effects of cancer treatment. Compounds in frankincense may help kill cancer cells and prevent tumors from spreading.
How much frankincense do I use?
The optimal dosage of frankincense is not well understood and may vary by person or condition. The amounts listed below are based on doses used in scientific studies.
• Asthma: 200 or 500 mg per day
• IBS: 250 mg per day
• Osteoarthritis: 170 mg, twice per day
• Ulcerative colitis: 250 mg per day
If you’re considering supplementing with frankincense, ask a healthcare professional about the recommended dosage.
Self-Care Tips:
Frankincense is a well tolerated product with very few side effects. Remember however, to first dilute frankincense with a carrier oil first just until you know how your body reacts with it. Some provider suggest that frankincense, as an anti-inflammatory, function as well as NSAIDs for treating osteoarthritis.
Frankincense may also function as a blood thinner, so people taking medications like include Coumadin and Warfarin should notify their provider as there may be some difficulties in controlling blood coagulation factors.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The contents of this website are based upon the views of Dr. Walker and his experience. This product is not intended as medical advice nor to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. The information is likewise not to replace the advice of a qualified health care provider. The information provided herein is intended as a sharing of general knowledge only and is not intended to be, nor is it, medical advice or a substitute for medical advice. That being said, please consult your healthcare provider before using supplements or providing supplements to children under the age of 18. If you have or suspect you have, a specific medical condition or disease, please consult your healthcare provider.
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