{"id":6462,"date":"2019-05-07T03:13:13","date_gmt":"2019-05-07T03:13:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.today\/?p=6462"},"modified":"2021-04-05T17:36:59","modified_gmt":"2021-04-05T17:36:59","slug":"20-reasons-to-start-using-frankincense","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.today\/20-reasons-to-start-using-frankincense\/","title":{"rendered":"20 Reasons to Start Using Frankincense"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

For many thousands of years, essential oils have been harnessed by civilization after civilization for some of their incredibly potent properties. With therapeutic and many healing properties galore, frankincense is just another one on the list of essential oils that you should probably start using, as soon as you can.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This particular type of essential oil is commonly used in aromatherapy and spa treatments but is, of course, best known as one of the gifts presented to the newborn baby Jesus. Well, now you can experience the luxurious benefits of the very same oil that was given to Christ on his birth.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A range of health benefits can be achieved with the use of frankincense, as it can relieve chronic stress, reduce anxiety, as well as bring about a reduction in pain levels and soothe inflammation. So why should you start to use frankincense? Here are a few reasons to consider.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1.     Reduces Stress<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When it is inhaled, frankincense essential oil is capable of working wonders in the lives of highly stressed people. The inhalation of this oil brings about a reduction in a person\u2019s heart rate and can even bring down high blood pressure, two typical accompaniments to stress<\/a>. It has also been shown to positively affect mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, with the added bonus being the lack of unwanted side effects, such as drowsiness, which many prescription medications cause. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In a world where we seem to take less and less time for ourselves, anything that can help to combat stress and anxiety, particularly when that can be done in a natural way, has got to be explored and used by as many people as possible. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you are new to essential oils and are looking for the right type of oil to help relieve stress, anxiety or depression, then frankincense could be the oil you\u2019ve been looking for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

2.     Boosts Immune System<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

With the regular occurrence of flu <\/a>breakouts and easily spread illnesses such as the common cold, everyone always seems to be on the lookout for the latest thing which could give their immune system an extra boost. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Frankincense could potentially do just that, as it has been found that this essential oil is able to enhance the immune system and subsequently help the body beat dangerous bacteria. This benefit could also help the body rid itself of viruses quicker and even fight off various cancer cells. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In terms of directly preventing illnesses, as opposed to indirectly doing this by boosting the immune system, frankincense can help to prevent harmful germs from developing around the house or on a person\u2019s skin. It has antiseptic properties which make it a great shield for a person\u2019s health in general. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Anyone and everyone could benefit from the occasional immune system boost, so get one for yourself by giving frankincense a try.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

3.     Fights Cancer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There have been several studies and research groups which have identified that frankincense essential oil has the potential to bring about reductions in the size of tumors<\/a>, largely on account of its potent anti-inflammatory qualities. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The oil has been shown by further studies to be capable of actually fighting certain types of cancer cells too, making it an exciting prospect for cancer patients and researchers alike. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Interestingly, the cancer-fighting qualities of frankincense are amplified when it is combined with myrrh. Perhaps those three wise men really knew what they were talking about, leading one to believe that the use of essential oils in the treatment of cancer could be worth its weight in, yes you guessed it, the third gift brought to the baby Jesus, lovely and shiny gold. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The development of natural cancer treatments is gaining speed, with many people looking to the world of plants and oils as a way of steering clear of the unpleasant world of chemotherapy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

4.     Kills Harmful Germs and Bacteria<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

By working as a highly effective antiseptic agent with disinfectant qualities, frankincense has the powerful capability needed to rid the body of cold <\/a>and flu germs. It can also do this when used as a cleaner in the home, making it a vital player in the fight against winter sickness. It can actually completely eliminate cold and flu-causing germs from the home, and what’s more is, that it does all of this naturally. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Many people are beginning to replace household cleaners with clever blends of essential oils. Frankincense is certainly one to consider, given that it can completely wipe out these harmful germs in one fell swoop. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The added bonus is the extra kitchen cabinet space that a person is likely to end up with, as all of those chemical bottles can be thrown out, to replaced by a tiny bottle of frankincense. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As with most essential oils, a little bit goes a long way, with sometimes just a couple of drops being enough to make a real difference in the battle against germs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

5.     Heals Skin and Prevents Signs of Aging<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Stretch marks are unsightly and unwanted facts of life that most people if given a choice would do away with altogether. Some people like to show off their surgical scars<\/a>, but let’s face it, the vast majority of people attempt to hide them with either clothing or tattoos. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wrinkles and crow\u2019s feet are often bemoaned by an aging population as dead giveaways of a person’s actual age. No matter the skin affliction, there will always be someone to try and put a positive spin on it, by saying things such as “it tells a story” or “it shows who you are”. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

As true as these statements may be though, if there was a natural way of improving the appearance of damaged skin, healing skin ailments and slowing down the signs of aging, an overwhelming majority of people would put their hands up and take it. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Frankincense has the ability to do all of these things and more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

6.     Improves Memory<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

What was the name of that essential oil<\/a> that can help improve short term and long term memory, as well as boosting learning functions? It\u2019s the one with a beautiful smell that has been used for thousands of years to treat a range of different health conditions. You know the one. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Distilled and extracted naturally and put to work in a huge range of applications. It has antiseptic qualities and even works in a similar way to some antibiotics. It can prevent the signs of aging, treat cancer symptoms and help to clean the home in a natural way. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re struggling to remember the name, it could be because your memory is in need of a boost. Fortunately for you, the answer to that question could also be the answer to your prayers. It\u2019s frankincense of course. That\u2019s the essential oil that can make all the difference to your memory. Remember?<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

7.     Balances Hormones and Improves Fertility<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It seems a little ironic that frankincense can improve fertility, given that it is best known as one of three gifts given to a woman who conceived via natural conception. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The three wise men weren\u2019t giving the Virgin Mary a bottle of frankincense to help her with her fertility, that\u2019s for sure, but getting serious for a minute, frankincense <\/a>has been known to improve the chances of natural conception as it helps to balance out hormones in the build-up to impregnation and the vital moments that follow. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Other benefits related to how frankincense balances hormones are found with how it can reduce the severity of symptoms associated with menstruation and even menopause. It does look on this evidence, as though women are more likely to benefit than men by using frankincense essential oils, however, there are some early studies into its effects on boosting sperm counts in men.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

8.     Aids Digestion<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

By allowing the digestive system to enter a natural state of detox, frankincense could be just what the body needs to get things moving again in the toilet department. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

There are so many over the counter medications which are geared towards improved digestion<\/a>, that a new natural player entering the playing field could seem irrelevant. This is far from the case though, as frankincense has been around for a lot longer than any of your antacids or indigestion tablets, and it will most likely be around after they have all disappeared from the shelves. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

That may actually happen a lot sooner than the big brands in medicine like care to think, given the progressive nature in which the public opinion seems to be swinging back toward using more natural treatments for things such as indigestion and intestinal problems, as well as for problems to do with stools and irregular bowel movements or conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

9. Oral Health<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Oral hygiene <\/a>is vital if you want to keep your teeth to old age. Many commercial toothpaste and mouthwash brands include fluoride in the ingredients for their products. There is conflicting research on fluoride. One set of evidence suggests that fluoride helps to strengthen teeth and gums, preventing tooth decay.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The other set of research indicates that fluoride is harmful to human health. The compound may have links to the development of cognitive issues concerning thinking and decision making. If you\u2019re a believer in this theory, then you may want to consider making your toothpaste at home.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory qualities of frankincense make it an excellent addition to a natural toothpaste. Take a small bowl and mix five drops of frankincense oil with 1-teaspoon of baking soda and peppermint oil. Brush with this formulation to protect your teeth and gums from infection and decay while keeping your breath smelling fresh.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

10. Astringent Properties<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The polyphenol antioxidants found in frankincense oil have potent astringent <\/a>properties. Astringents act on inflamed muscle and skin tissues, causing them to contract – this characteristic makes them beneficial for treating a variety of skin ailments, such as rashes. The essential oil also shows promise for treating eczema rashes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

A good example is calamine lotion. The astringent properties in calamine help to soothe itching and irritation associated with rashes from chickenpox or contact dermatitis. Frankincense also has astringent properties that strengthen hair and gums, lifts and tones the skin, while expanding blood vessels and improving circulation.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The astringent properties of frankincense also help to resolve diarrhea in patients dealing with gastroenteritis infection. The oil works well to coagulate blood and stop wounds from bleeding. Using a few drops of the essential oil mixed with a carrier oil, like coconut oil, ensures that the wound heals faster and does not experience infection from bacteria or viruses on the skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

11. Reduce Gas and Bloating<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Gastroenteritis <\/a>infection occurs due to eating contaminated food or beverages or coming in contact with an infected person. Many viral and bacterial pathogens can cause the condition. The intensity of symptoms and the duration of the infection depend on the health of the person\u2019s immune system, and the type of pathogen responsible for the disease. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

One of the more common signs of gastroenteritis infection involves the development of gas and bloating in the digestive system. This bloating occurs due to inflammation of the intestinal wall, resulting in the expansion of the permeable barrier keeping pathogens and other toxins confined to the gut. The inflammation helps these pathogens escape into the bloodstream, where they cause further complications with the patients\u2019 health. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dilute some frankincense essential oil with coconut oil, and rub it into the skin around your abdomen. The polyphenols absorb into the skin, reducing the bloating and gas attributed to gastroenteritis infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

12. Diuretic Properties<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

People who are prone to carrying additional water weight in their tissues and bloodstream may benefit from the diuretic properties found in frankincense oils. The polyphenol antioxidants in frankincense increase urination, allowing you to remove additional water that may be causing the symptoms of high blood pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When water collects in the chest area, it may place pressure on the heart, increasing blood pressure. In most cases, doctors prescribe pharmaceutical diuretics<\/a>, such as Lasix, to resolve the problem of subcutaneous water retention. Unfortunately, these drugs are not safe to use unless directed by a physician, and there are many health complications and side effects related to their administration.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The diuretic properties of frankincense essential oil help to remove the excess water. As a result, it brings down the individual\u2019s blood pressure reading. This natural remedy is far safer than the dangerous diuretic pharmaceuticals. If you are already using medication to treat conditions like hypertension, speak to your doctor before using frankincense oil.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

13. Acts as an Expectorant<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

People who are suffering from the flu, bronchitis<\/a>, or sinusitis may gain benefits from diffusing with frankincense oil. The astringent and anti-inflammatory properties of frankincense, along with its antimicrobial properties, make it an excellent choice for helping to loosen phlegm in the lungs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Steaming with frankincense oil allows the patient to absorb the expectorant properties of the oil, which helps to loosen mucus and expel it from the lungs through coughing. This treatment assists the lungs and throat with healing faster from the infection, enhancing their recovery from the disease.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We suggest you add five drops of frankincense oil, along with three drops of tea tree oil, and two drops of eucalyptus oil to purified water and fill your diffuser. Run it in your bedroom at night while you sleep. You breathe in the medicated steam, allowing the polyphenols antioxidants to enter your lungs and bloodstream where they provide relief from congestion and improve breathing.  <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

14. Anti-Inflammatory Properties<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Frankincense oil contains anti-inflammatory properties that can benefit human health. The polyphenol antioxidants found in the essential oil, help to relieve indigestion, gas, and bloating<\/a>. The polyphenols found in the oil reduce the presence of inflammatory particles in the digestive system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When we eat foods high in refined carbohydrates, such as sugar, the intestinal tract becomes inflamed. Some people with food allergies may notice that they develop severe symptoms of abdominal pain, along with bloat, gas, and cramps. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Adding five drops of frankincense oil to a teaspoon of coconut oil, and then rubbing it into the skin on your tummy can help to relieve these inflammatory symptoms. You can make a salve at home using beeswax, coconut oil, and frankincense essential oil. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Place a pan over low heat, add all the ingredients and let them melt. Pour the liquid into jars and let it set in the fridge. Use the salve on your stomach whenever you feel the signs of digestive inflammation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

15. Arthritis Pain Relief<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The inflammation of the digestive system can affect the entire body. As mentioned previously, the intestinal wall is permeable. When we eat refined carbs, the gaps in the lining of the wall expand, allowing toxins <\/a>and pathogens to escape into the bloodstream.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This effect causes \u201csystemic inflammation,\u201d which has an impact on every biological system in the body. An increase in systemic inflammation can affect those patients who are suffering from inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis. Particles, known as protein cytokines, attack the joints, giving patients symptoms of pain while reducing their range of motion with the joint.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rubbing a salve made with frankincense oil, that we describe in the previous section, into your joints \u2013 helps to reduce the symptoms of pain and inflammation associated with arthritis flare-ups. Keep a jar of the frankincense salve next to your bed and use it first thing in the morning when you get up. This strategy helps to keep your joints lubricated and pain-free throughout the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

16. Nervine Properties<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

One of the reasons why frankincense has a place in religious ceremonies \u2013 is due to its nervine properties. Frankincense, when burned or vaporized, produces a pleasant fragrance that induces feelings of calmness and serenity. The nervine <\/a>properties in the essential oil have a potent effect on the nervous system, releasing any stress or tension on the body and mind.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can benefit from the stress-busting effects of frankincense essential oil by adding a few drops to the reservoir of your diffuser, along with some purified water. Run the diffuser during the night to allow the polyphenols to enter your bloodstream through the lungs. You\u2019ll wake up the following morning feeling relaxed and refreshed.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Add frankincense essential oil to your bathwater for the same effect, or burn some frankincense incense while you relax in the tub. The warm steam and incense smoke will calm the CNS, allowing you to unwind from the pressures of the day.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

17. Boosts Circulation<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The polyphenol antioxidants found in frankincense essential oil, help to enhance circulation<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Circulation is responsible for driving oxygenated blood to our muscles., ligaments, and skin. When blood flow weakens with age, we start to encounter numerous health issues. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Frankincense contains antioxidants that help to reduce high blood pressure while eradicating free radicals from the bloodstream that are responsible for creating oxidative stress. By removing the free radicals, you prevent cell oxidation and cell death, which lead to the signs of aging.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Poor circulation leads to feelings of fatigue, and weakened immune function that increases our risk of contracting a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you suffer from circulatory issues of blood disorders, like anemia, then diffusing with frankincense oil will help to relieve the symptoms of your condition and improve oxygen levels in your blood. Frankincense essential oil is excellent for steaming, but you may also gain some benefit from using the incense as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

18. Heal Boils<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

People who are dealing with the effects of a weakened immune system may start to experience numerous heal issues involving various regions of the body. One of the more common signs of a weak immune system is the development of boils <\/a>or sores on the skin.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The skin relies on a delicate bacterial and fungal balance. When this balance gets out of control, it may result in the formation of skin disorders like jock itch or contact dermatitis. Similarly, when the body wants to expel toxins from under the skin, boils may start to form. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most boils go away after a few days without the need for medical intervention. However, using the frankincense salve mentioned in the previous segment on the boil will help it heal faster. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Boils are tremendously painful, and if located in an area of the body, such as between the thighs, it can lead to severe discomfort throughout the day. Using the salve helps to relieve your symptoms of pain and accelerate your recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

19. Aromatherapy Uses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Aromatherapy <\/a>is the practice of using aromatic essential oils made from natural herbs and plants that have beneficial health properties. There are various ways to practice aromatherapy, including burning incense and diffusing with essential oils. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Frankincense is an ideal essential oil or incense to use in aromatherapy sessions. The potent nervine effect of these treatments puts the mind at ease, reducing symptoms of stress and anxiety in the patient. Many Aromatherapists combine frankincense with other essential oils to form a cocktail of polyphenol antioxidants that relieve inflammation, reduce stress, and enhance the health of the immune system.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

You can create aromatherapy sessions at home using a diffuser or your bath. We recommend you purchase some frankincense essential oil and incense. Run a hot tub and add five drops of the oil to the water. Light the incense and lower the lighting in the room.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Relax in the warm water and breathe in the fumes. You\u2019ll notice a feeling of relaxation in your body and mind.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

20. Topical Uses<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As previously mentioned, using a salve is an excellent way to benefit from the polyphenol antioxidants <\/a>found in frankincense. We suggest that you use raw beeswax available from a beekeeper in your area. The beeswax also contains beneficial ingredients like royal jelly and polyphenols from the flowering plants used to manufacture the wax. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Add your frankincense oil to the melted wax as the base ingredient for your salve. Fortunately, frankincense combines well with many other essential oils, allowing you to customize your blend to suit your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Try mixing citrus oils as well as bergamot, benzoin, myrrh, lavender, or sandalwood oil. Experiment with combinations until you find something that you like. Rub the salve into wounds to help them heal faster. Apply the ointment to eczema rashes, sunburns, or scrapes to relieve the symptoms of inflammation and pain. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The skin absorbs the polyphenol antioxidants, pushing them into the bloodstream where they help to relieve the symptoms of physical and mental stress.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\r\n

<\/div>