Let’ Talk Frankincense: Essential Oil and it’s theraputic & healing properties.......
Essential oils have been used for thousands of year as part of the practice of aromatherapy. One of which is the essential oil “Frankincense”. It has a number of health benefits:
help with relieving chronic stress and anxiety
reducing pain & inflammation
boosting immunity
The word “Frankincense” originates from the term “ franc incens” which, in old french, means quality incense. It has been associated with many different religions over the years especially Christianity, which may be why it seems so familiar by name.
What can it be used for??
Frankincense oil can be used either by being absorbed through the skin or inhaled, however can be quite potent so it should not be ingested at in large quantities!! It is understood to have an effect on the part of our brain that has influence on our nervous system: the limbic system.
Some beneficial uses:
(the below benefits refer to the use of 100% pure essential oil rather than “perfumed” or “fragrance” oil)
Stress Relieving Bath Soak- add a few drops to your bath for stress relief. When used in a bath it will quickly induce a feeling of relaxation, peace and satisfaction. Add some frankincense to your oil diffuser or vaporizer to fight anxiety and create a relaxed feel about your home. When inhaled it has been shown to reduce heart rate and high blood pressure. It has anti-anxiety and depression reducing abilities without causing drowsiness.
Boosts Immune Function and Illness Prevention- studies have demonstrated that frankincense has immune enhansing abilities which may help destroy bacteria and viruses. It can be used to help prevent germs from forming on the skin, in your mouth and home also.
Anti Aging- add 6 drops to 30mls or a carrier oil (unscented) and apply to any area of skin. It helps protect skin cells and can be used to help reduce acne, the appearance of large pores, prevent wrinkles and help tighten and lift skin to slow the signs of aging. (be sure to always test on a small area of skin first for possible allergic reactions).
Relieves symptoms Of Indigestion- In the event of digestive stress such as gas, constipation, stomach aches, PMS, cramps, frankincense may help relieve discomfort. It helps speed up the digestion of food. Adding 2 drops to 300mls water / or a tablespoon of honey. If you intend to ingest orally, be sure to consult your GP and aromatherapist first as it can be contraindicated if you are on any other supplements or medications. And also be sure that you are using 100% pure essential oil.
Scar, wound, stretch mark and acre Remedy- it can help with the healing of wounds and decrease the appearance of scars, dark spots caused by acre blemishes, eczema . Mix 2-3 drops of oil with an unscented base oil or lotion and apply directly to the affected skin that needs a little help healing. Be careful NOT to apply to broken skin.
Natural Cold & Flu Remedy- it can help provide relief from coughing during a respiratory infection due to cold or flu. It can help eliminate phlegm in the lungs as well as acts as an anti inflammatory in the nasal passages. This will help make your breathing easier. Add a few drops to a cloth and inhale throughout your day to feel the respiratory benefits. Or simply use in an oil diffuser in the home.
Pain & Inflammation- add a drop of oil to steaming water and soak a towel in it. Then place the towel over your body or face to inhale and decrease any muscle aches. A few drops can be added to a carrier oil and massaged into your muscles, joints, feet or neck. Frankincense can improve circulation and has the ability to lower symptoms of muscle pain related to conditions such as arthritis, asthma, joint or muscle pain.
Sleep Aid: by helping to calm and relax those feeling of stress that can prevent us from falling asleep of a night. It helps open up your breathing passages, allowing your body to reach an ideal sleeping temperature, relaxes your muscles can help eliminate pain that may keep you up.
I hope that this provides you with some inspiration in the wonderful world of essential oils and the the many uses and benefits they have ........................ :)
Megan