Frankincense essential oil can be used to treat many common medical conditions. Keep a bottle of this essential oil in your medicine cabinet as a natural remedy for all types of ailments. Frankincense oil is most often used to help with digestive issues and stress but can also used for dental issues, as a pain reliever and an immune system booster. Learn some of the ways that you can use this oil to treat internal, external and mental conditions.
Internal Conditions
- Headaches
By improving blood circulation, frankincense oil can help with the pain of a headache. Studies have shown that frankincense oil may relieve migraine, cluster and indomethacin-responsive headaches. One study showed that patients who showed no results from prescribed medications experienced positive results with daily doses of frankincense. To administer, mix the oil with a carrier oil and massage onto the temples and forehead. For tension headaches, massage the oil onto the neck and shoulders, applying deep pressure to any sore muscles.
- Respiratory Conditions
Frankincense can relieve throat congestion and can be an effective natural treatment for allergies, colds, sore throats and flu. Because it is antiseptic, it can also help to heal respiratory infections. It can also help to break up excess phlegm or mucus in the body. Diffuse the oil through the room or inhale the steam from a pot of hot water with a few drops of oil mixed in. Frankincense may also be able to treat the symptoms of asthma. Some essential oils that treat asthma can also make an attack worse and depends on the individual. Never rely on an essential oil to stop an asthma attack.
- Pain Relief
For muscle pains, rheumatism and arthritis, make a pain relieving cream with frankincense oil and coconut oil, or any other carrier oil. Frankincense oil has anti-inflammatory properties and can relieve pain from sprains and joint aches. It also helps to stimulate blood circulation, which also helps to alleviate pain and aids in the coagulation of wounds, leading to faster healing with less chance of infection. You can also add the oil to a warm bath for radiating full body pain. Studies have shown that the oil may be just as effective as ibuprofen or similar over the counter medication.
- Digestive Aid
Frankincense oil can help the body produce bile, which is essential for a healthy digestive tract. It also treats indigestion, flatulence and menstrual disorders. By improving circulation and keeping the liver functioning properly, frankincense can help to reestablish the digestive tract’s healthy cycle. It also helps to detox the entire digestive tract, producing bowel movements and reducing pain and discomfort in the stomach. It may also be able to relieve nausea and help to flush out excess water that can cause uncomfortable bloating. After speaking with your doctor, see if a glass of water with a few drops of frankincense oil is a safe daily treatment to keep your stomach happy. If you have concerns with ingesting the oil, topical application over the stomach can also have beneficial effects.
External Conditions
- Dental Care
With astringent and antibacterial properties, frankincense oil is a great addition to store bought mouthwash or homemade dental products. It can help treat bad breath and prevent plaque build-up, which leads to more serious conditions like cavities and gingivitis. It may also be beneficial in treating oral infections. Add a few drops of frankincense to a glass of water for a quick mouth rinse on the go. To make a homemade toothpaste, mix a few drops of frankincense oil with baking soda and brush as normal. Rinse with water afterwards.
- Skin Health
Frankincense oil can improve the appearance of skin, especially when it comes to some of the unwanted side effects of aging. When mixed with a carrier oil, frankincense can be used to help diminish the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It may also be able to even out skin tone. It strengthens skin and can help to reverse the damage of the sun and toxins. Mix a few drops with distilled water and use every night as a toner to keep skin glowing and youthful.
Frankincense can also help with cuts and scrapes. It not only keeps the wound clean and prevents infection but also helps to regenerate new skin cell growth, speeding up healing time and preventing scars.
Mental Health
- Anxiety and Depression
Anxiety is the most common mental disorder in the United States and depression cases are more frequent each year. While there is a wide selection of prescribed medications to deal with related symptoms, many are addicting and cause unwanted side effects if used long term. Some studies link these pills to serious disorders, like dementia. They can also be expensive. Frankincense oil may be an affordable and more natural way to treat tension, anxiety, fatigue and depression. Studies have shown that the parts of the brain that respond positively to prescribed medications respond similar to frankincense, easing stress and allowing both the body and mind to relax.
- Insomnia
Because of its ability to lessen chronic stress and anxiety, frankincense oil is often helpful in individuals who suffer from insomnia. As it relaxes the body and mind, it is usually easier to fall asleep and stay asleep for longer periods of time. Try soaking in a bath with a few drops of frankincense oil before retiring for the evening. You should find that you drift off to sleep fairly quickly.
Frankincense essential oil can be purchased through health stores or online. It is also an easy oil to make at home. Before medicating with Frankincense oil, always consult with a medical professional. Stop use if there are any signs of allergic reaction, rash or irritation.
