Frankincense is more than a fragrance — people use it for skin, breathing issues, and stress relief. You probably know it from incense or essential oils. This short guide tells you practical ways to use frankincense, what works, what doesn't, and how to buy a good product without getting scammed.
How do people use frankincense? The oil goes in a diffuser for smell, diluted on skin for massage, or as an ingredient in creams. Some take Boswellia extracts (the plant behind frankincense) as capsules for joint pain. For skin, a drop mixed with a carrier oil can help dry patches and small scars. For mood, a diffuser session of 10–20 minutes can calm a noisy room.
There are lab studies and small clinical trials showing Boswellia extracts can reduce inflammation in conditions like osteoarthritis and some asthma types. Results are promising but not definitive — researchers often use concentrated extracts, not the scent alone. If you expect a cure, don’t. Think of frankincense as a possible support alongside proven treatments, not a replacement.
How to use it safely: always dilute essential oil with a carrier (like sweet almond or jojoba). A common rule is 1% dilution for face use (one drop of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier) and 2–3% for body use. Patch-test new oils on a small skin area for 24 hours to check for reactions. If pregnant, breastfeeding, or on blood thinners, talk to your doctor before using Boswellia or essential oils.
Look for labels that say Boswellia sacra, Boswellia carterii, or Boswellia serrata — those are common species. Choose COA-tested products (Certificate of Analysis) when possible; that shows lab testing for purity and contaminants. Avoid oils sold with vague claims or unreal guarantees. Price matters: very cheap oils often mix cheaper fillers. If you want supplements, pick standardized extracts listing boswellic acid percentage — 60–65% is common in studies.
How to store frankincense: keep bottles away from heat and light, tightly closed. Proper storage preserves scent and therapeutic components. Use within a year for best quality. If using topically, stop if you get redness, itching, or swelling. For long-term conditions, check with your healthcare provider about interactions and dosing.
Quick practical ideas: add a drop to your moisturizer for dry areas, blend 2 drops with 10 ml carrier oil for a shoulder rub, or use a few drops in a diffuser during tense evenings. Simple, safe uses can make frankincense a handy tool in your wellness box without replacing medical advice.
Remember pets and kids: avoid diffusing frankincense where cats spend time, and use lower dilutions for children (0.25–0.5%). Start with a short test: diffuse for 10 minutes and watch reactions. Buy from pharmacies or well-known natural product brands that show testing results. Start with small bottles so you can try different types without wasting money. If unsure, ask a pharmacist or naturopath for product and dose advice. Always check labels.
