Frankincense has been treasured for thousands of years, not just for its aromatic properties but also for its potential health benefits. This ancient resin, derived from the Boswellia tree, continues to capture the attention of modern researchers investigating its therapeutic properties. From supporting joint health to potentially fighting inflammation, frankincense offers a range of wellness applications backed by both traditional use and emerging scientific evidence.
What Is Frankincense?
Frankincense, scientifically known as olibanum, is a fragrant resin obtained from trees belonging to the Boswellia genus. These trees predominantly grow in arid, mountainous regions across India, the Middle East, and various parts of Africa, particularly Somalia and Ethiopia.
The resin is harvested by making small incisions in the bark of the Boswellia tree, allowing the milky-white sap to seep out. This sap hardens into tear-shaped droplets that are then collected and processed. The resulting resin has a distinctive woody, slightly spicy aroma that has made it valuable in religious ceremonies, perfumery, and traditional medicine for millennia.
Today, frankincense is available in several forms: as raw resin for burning, essential oil for aromatherapy and topical applications, and standardized extracts in capsules or tablets for oral supplementation.
The Active Compounds in Frankincense
The therapeutic properties of frankincense are primarily attributed to compounds called boswellic acids, which are pentacyclic triterpenic acids. These bioactive substances, along with other components like terpenes, are responsible for most of the resin’s anti-inflammatory and medicinal effects.
Research indicates that boswellic acids work by inhibiting specific enzymes involved in inflammatory processes, particularly 5-lipoxygenase, which plays a key role in producing pro-inflammatory leukotrienes. This mechanism of action makes frankincense particularly interesting for conditions characterized by chronic inflammation.
Science-Backed Benefits of Frankincense
Supporting Joint Health and Arthritis Relief
One of the most well-researched applications of frankincense is its potential to help manage arthritis symptoms. The anti-inflammatory properties of boswellic acids may help reduce joint pain, stiffness, and swelling associated with both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Multiple studies have examined frankincense extract supplementation in people with knee osteoarthritis. Research participants taking Boswellia extract have reported improvements in pain levels, physical function, and joint mobility compared to placebo groups. Some studies have used doses ranging from 100 mg to 500 mg of standardized extract taken one to three times daily over periods of several weeks to months.
Topical applications of frankincense oil may also provide relief when applied directly to affected joints. The combination of internal supplementation and external application might offer synergistic benefits, though more research is needed to confirm optimal protocols.
Importantly, while frankincense shows promise for arthritis management, it should be viewed as a complementary approach rather than a replacement for conventional treatment. Anyone considering frankincense for arthritis should consult with their healthcare provider to ensure it fits appropriately into their overall treatment plan.
Promoting Digestive Health
Frankincense has demonstrated potential benefits for various digestive conditions, particularly those involving inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract.
For individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), frankincense supplementation has been associated with reduced abdominal discomfort, bloating, and improved bowel habits. The anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties of the resin may help calm an overactive digestive system.
Perhaps more significantly, research suggests that frankincense may be beneficial for people with inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease. Studies have shown that Boswellia extract can help reduce inflammation in the intestinal lining, potentially leading to symptom improvement and extended periods of remission.
In one notable study, participants with ulcerative colitis in remission who took Boswellia extract experienced fewer relapses compared to a control group. The extract appeared to help maintain the integrity of the intestinal barrier and modulate inflammatory responses.
As with any supplement used for digestive conditions, it’s essential to work with a healthcare provider to ensure frankincense is appropriate for your specific situation and won’t interfere with other treatments.
Respiratory Support and Asthma Management
Traditional medicine systems have long used frankincense to support respiratory health, and modern research is beginning to validate these historical uses. The same anti-inflammatory mechanisms that benefit joints and digestion may also help with respiratory conditions.
For people with asthma, frankincense may help reduce the frequency and severity of symptoms. The boswellic acids in frankincense appear to inhibit the production of leukotrienes that cause bronchial constriction and inflammation in the airways.
Some studies have found that people with asthma who supplemented with frankincense extract alongside their standard medications experienced improvements in lung function, reduced wheezing, and decreased use of rescue inhalers. However, frankincense should never replace prescribed asthma medications without explicit guidance from a healthcare provider.
The resin may also provide benefits for other respiratory conditions characterized by inflammation, such as chronic bronchitis, though more research is needed in these areas.
Oral Health Applications
The antibacterial properties of frankincense make it a promising natural agent for promoting oral health. Boswellic acids have shown effectiveness against various bacteria that contribute to tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath.
Research has demonstrated that frankincense extract can combat bacteria associated with aggressive periodontitis and gingivitis. Some studies have tested frankincense-containing chewing gum and found that it helps reduce bacterial counts in saliva.
While frankincense shows potential as an adjunct to regular oral hygiene practices, it shouldn’t replace brushing, flossing, and professional dental care. Some natural toothpastes and mouthwashes now include frankincense extract as an active ingredient.
Potential Anticancer Properties
Perhaps one of the most exciting areas of frankincense research involves its potential anticancer properties. Laboratory studies have shown that boswellic acids may inhibit cancer cell proliferation and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in various cancer cell lines.
Test-tube and animal studies have investigated frankincense’s effects on breast, prostate, colon, pancreatic, and skin cancers, among others. The mechanisms appear to involve multiple pathways, including inhibition of cancer cell DNA synthesis and interference with cell signaling that promotes tumor growth.
Some research has also explored frankincense’s potential to reduce side effects of conventional cancer treatments. For instance, studies examining brain tumor patients found that high doses of boswellic acid extract helped reduce cerebral edema (brain swelling) that can occur as a side effect of radiation therapy.
It’s crucial to emphasize that while these preliminary findings are promising, frankincense is not a proven cancer treatment. Anyone dealing with cancer should rely on evidence-based medical treatments and only consider frankincense as a complementary approach under the guidance of their oncology team.
How to Use Frankincense
Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense essential oil is one of the most popular forms for home use. It can be employed in several ways:
Aromatherapy: Add a few drops to a diffuser to disperse the aromatic compounds throughout a room. Many people find the scent calming and grounding.
Topical Application: Always dilute frankincense essential oil in a carrier oil (such as coconut, jojoba, or sweet almond oil) before applying to skin. A typical dilution is 2-3 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. This can be massaged into joints, applied to the chest for respiratory support, or used in skincare routines.
Bath Additive: Mix a few drops with a carrier oil or bath salts before adding to bathwater.
Never ingest essential oils unless under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, as they are highly concentrated and can be harmful if consumed improperly.
Frankincense Supplements
Standardized frankincense extracts are available in capsule or tablet form for internal use. These supplements typically contain measured amounts of boswellic acids, allowing for consistent dosing.
Dosages used in research studies have varied widely depending on the condition being addressed, ranging from 100 mg to 1,500 mg or more per day, often divided into multiple doses. The optimal dosage for any individual depends on various factors including the specific health goal, body weight, and overall health status.
It’s advisable to start with lower doses and gradually increase as tolerated, always following product instructions or healthcare provider recommendations.
Frankincense Resin
The raw resin can be burned as incense for aromatherapy purposes or, in some traditional practices, small pieces are chewed or dissolved in water for internal use. However, supplements offer more standardized and convenient dosing for therapeutic purposes.
Safety Considerations and Potential Side Effects
Frankincense is generally considered safe for most people when used appropriately. Its long history of traditional use and relatively low toxicity profile make it a well-tolerated natural remedy.
Common Side Effects
When side effects do occur, they are typically mild and may include:
- Digestive upset, including nausea or acid reflux
- Diarrhea or constipation
- Skin irritation when applied topically (especially if not properly diluted)
- Headache
Who Should Avoid Frankincense
Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women: Some evidence suggests that frankincense may increase the risk of miscarriage. Pregnant women and those trying to conceive should avoid frankincense supplements. The safety during breastfeeding has not been adequately studied.
People Taking Certain Medications: Frankincense may interact with several types of medications, including blood thinners like warfarin and anti-inflammatory drugs. It may also affect how the liver processes certain medications.
Those with Upcoming Surgery: Due to potential effects on blood clotting, it’s recommended to stop taking frankincense supplements at least two weeks before scheduled surgery.
Quality and Purity Concerns
Not all frankincense products are created equal. Quality can vary significantly between brands and sources. When selecting frankincense products:
- Look for reputable brands that provide third-party testing results
- Check for standardized boswellic acid content in supplements
- Ensure essential oils are pure and not diluted with synthetic fragrances
- Verify the botanical source (specific Boswellia species)
What the Research Doesn’t Support
Despite its many potential benefits, frankincense is sometimes marketed for uses that lack solid scientific backing. It’s important to distinguish between evidence-based applications and unproven claims.
Blood Sugar Control
While some preliminary animal studies and small human trials have suggested that frankincense might help regulate blood sugar levels, the evidence remains inconsistent and insufficient. People with diabetes should not rely on frankincense for blood sugar management and must continue with their prescribed treatment plans.
Mental Health Benefits
Although frankincense aromatherapy is often promoted for reducing stress and anxiety, and some animal studies have shown potential effects on mood-regulating neurotransmitters, human clinical trials are lacking. While many people find the aroma pleasant and relaxing, this doesn’t constitute evidence for treating clinical anxiety or depression.
Memory Enhancement
Some animal research has indicated that frankincense compounds might support cognitive function and memory, but these findings haven’t been replicated in human studies. Claims about memory improvement or protection against cognitive decline remain speculative.
Hormonal Balance and Fertility
Despite traditional uses and marketing claims suggesting that frankincense can regulate hormones, ease menopausal symptoms, or enhance fertility, scientific evidence supporting these uses is minimal. Anyone experiencing hormonal issues or fertility challenges should seek guidance from appropriate medical specialists.
Choosing Quality Frankincense Products
To maximize potential benefits and ensure safety, selecting high-quality frankincense products is essential.
For essential oils, look for oils labeled as “therapeutic grade” from reputable companies that provide Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS) test results. These tests verify the chemical composition and purity of the oil. The botanical name (such as Boswellia sacra, Boswellia carterii, or Boswellia serrata) should be clearly stated.
For supplements, choose products that specify the percentage of boswellic acids they contain. Research studies typically use extracts standardized to contain 30-65% boswellic acids. Products should also be manufactured according to Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) and ideally tested by independent third parties for purity and potency.
Frequently Asked Questions About Frankincense
What does frankincense smell like?
Frankincense has a complex aroma often described as woody, earthy, and slightly spicy with subtle citrus notes. Many people find it warm, calming, and meditative. The exact scent can vary depending on the Boswellia species and region of origin.
How long does it take for frankincense to work?
The timeframe varies depending on the condition being addressed and the form of frankincense used. Aromatherapy effects are typically immediate, while benefits for conditions like arthritis may require several weeks of consistent use. Most studies examining frankincense for chronic conditions used treatment periods of 4-12 weeks.
Can I take frankincense every day?
For most people, daily use of frankincense supplements or essential oil appears safe when used appropriately and at recommended doses. However, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any long-term supplementation regimen.
Is frankincense the same as myrrh?
No, although they are often mentioned together and share some characteristics. Both are aromatic resins used historically in religious and medicinal contexts, but they come from different plant genera and have distinct chemical compositions and properties.
What is the best form of frankincense for joint pain?
For joint pain, oral supplements containing standardized Boswellia extract (with specified boswellic acid content) have the most research support. Some people also find topical application of diluted frankincense essential oil helpful as a complementary approach.
The Bottom Line
Frankincense represents a fascinating bridge between ancient healing traditions and modern scientific investigation. Its anti-inflammatory properties, primarily attributed to boswellic acids, show genuine promise for supporting joint health, digestive wellness, respiratory function, and potentially other conditions.
The strongest evidence supports using frankincense for arthritis-related symptoms and certain inflammatory digestive conditions. Emerging research on its potential anticancer properties is exciting but remains preliminary, requiring much more study before definitive conclusions can be drawn.
While frankincense is generally safe for most people, it’s not appropriate for everyone, particularly pregnant women and those taking certain medications. As with any natural remedy or supplement, quality matters significantly, and professional guidance is invaluable.
If you’re considering incorporating frankincense into your wellness routine, approach it as a complementary tool rather than a replacement for conventional medical care. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider who can help you determine whether frankincense is appropriate for your individual circumstances and can guide you on proper usage, dosing, and potential interactions with other treatments.
The ancient wisdom surrounding frankincense continues to be illuminated by modern science, revealing a natural substance with legitimate therapeutic potential. Used wisely and with realistic expectations, frankincense can be a valuable addition to a holistic approach to health and wellness.
Sources:
- National Institutes of Health – Boswellic acids and anti-inflammatory properties
- BMC Nutrition Journal – Boswellia for osteoarthritis
- NIH – Frankincense for digestive health
- PubMed – Boswellia effects on respiratory function
- NIH – Antibacterial properties of frankincense
- BMC Journal of Translational Medicine – Anticancer properties
- NIH – Traditional uses and safety of frankincense
- Wiley Online Library – Clinical trials on Boswellia extract