by Frankincense is an aromatic resin extracted from trees belonging to the genus Boswellia. These trees are found in parts of Asia and Africa. For centuries, frankincense extracts have been used in religious ceremonies, perfumes, and traditional medicines around the world. In recent years, research has identified various health benefits of frankincense extracts due to their antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Let’s explore some key aspects of frankincense extracts in detail.
Composition of Frankincense
Frankincense resin extract is mainly composed of boswellic acids (such as beta-boswellic acid), essential oils (like alpha-pinene and limonene), and other compounds. Boswellic acids are triterpenic acids that give frankincense its anti-inflammatory qualities. The essential oils present are responsible for the distinctive fragrance of frankincense. Various compounds work together synergistically to provide therapeutic effects. The composition of frankincense extracts may vary depending on the species of Boswellia tree and extraction process used.
Potential Health Benefits
Anti-inflammatory effects: Frankincense extracts, especially those containing high amounts of boswellic acids, have shown promise in reducing inflammation. Various studies have found frankincense extracts to be effective in treating osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and mediators. Some research also links frankincense extracts to reduced asthma symptoms through anti-inflammatory action.
Antioxidant properties: Compounds in frankincense have potent antioxidant activity. They help eliminate harmful free radicals in the body and protect cells from oxidative damage. This antioxidant effect is associated with possible anti-aging benefits as well as reduced risk of chronic diseases linked to oxidative stress.
Antimicrobial abilities: Studies reveal that frankincense essential oils have antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. The extracts were effective against several pathogens, including bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus. This antimicrobial activity suggests possible application of frankincense in medicinal and non-medicinal products.
Brain health: Animal research links frankincense extracts to improved cognitive function and reduced beta-amyloid plaques associated with Alzheimer’s disease. The extracts were also linked to enhanced brain cell survival and protected against toxin-induced cell death. More research is still needed to validate frankincense’s brain-boosting benefits for humans.
Other potential uses: Preliminary research links frankincense intake to reduced symptoms of anxiety and depression. It may also boost immunity, protect the liver, aid digestion, and help manage blood sugar levels. However, further clinical tests are warranted to validate these effects in humans.
Uses and Applications
Aromatherapy: Frankincense essential oil is frequently used in aromatherapy due to its calming and rejuvenating scent. It may help relieve stress, reduce anxiety, promote relaxation and improve mood when inhaled. The essential oil is also used topically in massage blends for similar effects.
Cosmetic products: Thanks to its antibacterial and anti-aging properties, frankincense extracts find application in various skincare products like serums, creams and lotions. They may help treat acne, reduce signs of aging like wrinkles, and improve overall skin health when applied topically.
Traditional medicine: For millennia, traditional medicines from Asia and Africa have incorporated frankincense extracts to help manage arthritis, digestion issues, respiratory conditions, oral health problems and more. Even today, it remains a key ingredient in herbal formulations for various ailments.
Supplements: Frankincense resin and essential oil extracts are available as supplements in capsule and liquid forms. They provide the therapeutic compounds in concentrations that are safe for oral intake. This allows benefiting from frankincense’s health perks through daily supplementation.
Cautions and Side Effects
Frankincense extracts are generally well-tolerated in recommended dosages. However, some mild side effects like diarrhea, nausea and abdominal pain may rarely occur in sensitive individuals, especially with excessive intake.
Using high amounts of frankincense essential oil topically could potentially cause skin irritation in some people. A skin patch test is recommended when using the essential oil for the first time.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare practitioner before taking frankincense supplements as safety for use during pregnancy is still being researched.
Its use is also not advisable for those scheduled to undergo surgery within two weeks as frankincense compounds may interfere with blood clotting.
As with any supplement or herbal product, it’s safer to source professionally extracted and standardized frankincense extracts from trusted brands for maximum benefits and minimum risks.
