Frankincense essential oil has captivated the world for centuries with its profound aroma, therapeutic benefits, and rich history. Revered as one of nature's most versatile oils, it continues to hold a special place in aromatherapy, skincare, and holistic health thanks to its long and revered history of use in both medicine and in ceremony.
The History of Frankincense
Frankincense, derived from the resin of the Boswellia tree, has a rich history that dates back thousands of years. Its name originates from the Old French term franc encens, meaning ‘high-quality incense.’ The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, Romans, and Middle Eastern cultures all cherished this resin for its varied spiritual, medicinal, and cosmetic properties.
Frankincense is most famously known as one of the gifts brought to the infant Jesus, alongside gold and myrrh. This biblical reference elevated the oil’s status as a sacred and precious substance. In ancient temples, Frankincense was burned to purify the air, ward off evil spirits, and invoke divine presence. Egyptians used it in embalming rituals, believing it preserved the body and soul for the afterlife - in fact, in the 1922 discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb, Frankincense was found inside in sealed containers.
Frankincense was a cornerstone of the ancient spice trade. The Arabian Peninsula, particularly Oman, Yemen, and Somalia, was the heart of Frankincense production. Caravans travelled through treacherous desert routes to deliver this precious resin to markets across the Mediterranean, India, and China. Its value rivalled that of gold, making it a symbol of wealth and status.
The Art of Extraction
The process of creating Frankincense essential oil begins with harvesting the resin, also known as "tears." This meticulous process ensures the preservation of the Boswellia trees and the purity of the resin.
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Tapping the Tree: Farmers make small incisions in the bark of the Boswellia tree, allowing the sap to ooze out. This sap hardens into tear-shaped resin drops over several weeks.
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Collecting the Resin: The hardened resin is carefully scraped off the tree and sorted according to quality and grade. Higher-quality resin produces superior essential oil.
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Steam Distillation: The resin undergoes steam distillation, a process where steam breaks down the resin to release its aromatic compounds. The result is a golden, rich essential oil, packed with therapeutic benefits.
The yield depends on the resin quality and distillation expertise. This labour-intensive process contributes to the oil's premium value.
Best Use
Frankincense essential oil is celebrated for its grounding properties. Inhalation using Frankincense really helps to slow the breath, helping to calm in anxious situations or periods of overwhelm. Its warm, resinous aroma calms the mind and soothes anxiety, making it a popular choice for meditation and mindfulness practices.
Frankincense is also a superstar in natural skincare due to its anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. Its ability to support cellular health makes it a key ingredient in many anti-ageing formulations.
Frankincense has been traditionally used to support respiratory health too. Its expectorant properties help to clear congestion and improve breathing, making it ideal to reach for during cold and flu seasons.
Botanical Notes
Frankincense essential oil offers a complex and captivating aroma that unfolds in layers...
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Top Notes: Fresh, citrus-like brightness that uplifts and energises.
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Heart Notes: Warm, resinous, and slightly spicy, providing depth and richness.
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Base Notes: Woody and balsamic undertones, are grounding and soothing.
This multidimensional scent makes it a favourite in perfumery and aromatherapy blends. It pairs beautifully with other oils like Lavender, Cedarwood, Myrrh, and Citrus, creating harmonious and luxurious blends.
We blend Frankincense with Cinnamon and Sweet Orange, bringing instant joy thanks to the evocation of warm festive spices, mulled wine, baking and festive fun with friends and family. We love it in our limited edition candle housed in a gorgeous amber glass.
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