Product Details
Botanical name
Boswellia carterii
Extraction method / Source
Steam distillation / Tree resin
Aroma
Fresh, terpene-like, with subtle citrus note
Note classification
Base
Odor Intensity
7
Key constituents
Octyl acetate 50 - 60% , Octanol, Incensyl acetate, Incensol, Limonene, (E)-beta ocimene
Plant description
Botanical family: Burseraceae
The Boswellia species is a slow growing deciduous tree which is native to the mountainous regions of western India, Arabia and northern Africa. It grows to a height of 6 - 25 feet, depending on growing conditions, and has one or several trunks. It produces compound green leaves and tiny, yellow-white flowers. The rich yellow resin which exudes from the trunk is collected to make pure essential oil.
Regions of Production
Somalia, Ethiopia
Growing Practices
Resin from wild growing trees indigenous to the region is collected for distillation.
History / Fun Facts
Frankincense played an important role in the ancient Roman, Greek, Hebrew, Persian and Egyptian civilizations. It was used extensively in cosmetics and as an incense for religious rituals. According to the Bible, frankincense was one of the three treasures brought to the Christ child by three kings.
Properties
Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antidepressant, anxiolytic, astringent, carminative, cicatrisant, cytophylactic, diuretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, regenerative, sedative, uterine, vulnerary
Please refer to the Glossary for terms which may be new to you.
Uses / Benefits
Helps alleviate anxiety and stress related conditions, supports respiratory health, is beneficial to asthma and bronchitis by slowing the breath and deepening respirations. Frankincense is recommended for dry, mature skin, scars, burns, wounds and wrinkles.
Fragrant influences
Aids meditation, contemplation and prayer by stilling the mind. Helps to cut ties with the past, especially when these ties block personal growth.
Modes of Administration
Topical: massage, compress, bath, liniment, skin care.
Inhalation: direct inhalation, diffuser, oil vaporizer
Frankincense is safe to take orally under supervision of a trained aromatherapy professional.
Blends well with
Bergamot, Clary Sage, Coriander, Cypress, Grapefruit, Geranium, Lavender, Lemon, Mandarin, Neroli, Orange, Palmarosa, Patchouli, Pine, Rose, Sandalwood, Vetiver, Ylang Ylang
Safety
Non-toxic, non-sensitizing, non-irritating. Avoid during pregnancy and while breast feeding.
History / Fun Facts
Frankincense played an important role in the ancient Roman, Greek, Hebrew, Persian and Egyptian civilizations. It was used extensively in cosmetics and as an incense for religious rituals. According to the Bible, frankincense was one of the three treasures brought to the Christ child by three kings.
Notice
This information is for educational purposes only. It has not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Although we strive to provide information which is accurate and up to date, we cannot guarantee the accuracy or completeness of this information.
Precautions
Pure essential oils are highly concentrated plant extracts. Do not use them undiluted, or in the eyes or mucus membranes. If applying an essential oil to the skin, always dilute it with a proper carrier oil and test on a small patch of skin before applying to a large area. Do not take them internally except under the direction of a qualified professional trained in Aromatherapy. Always familiarize yourself with the safety, contraindications and proper preparation of each essential oil before use. Note that when using essential oils for children and the elderly, very low concentrations should be used. Keep all essential oils away from children and pets.
References
Althea Press, Essential Oils: Natural Remedies, 2015. Althea Press, Berkeley, CA.
Battaglia, Salvatore, The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy, Second Edition, 2003. The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Brisbane, Australia
Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy: Soothing Remedies to Restore, Rejuvenate, and Heal, 2002. Prentice Hall Press, New York, NY.
Cooksley, Valerie Gennari, Aromatherapy: A Holistic Guide to Natural Healing with Essential Oils, 2015. Floramed Publishing, The Woodlands, TX.
International Fragrance Research Association, http://www.ifraorg.org/en-us/standards (January 5, 2016)
Schnaubelt, Kurt, The Healing Intelligence of Essential Oils: The Science of Aromatherapy, 2011. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.
Schnaubelt, Kurt, Advanced Aromatherapy: The Science of Essential Oil Therapy, (English translation)1998. Healing Arts Press, Rochester, VT.
Tourles, Stephanie L, Hands On Healing Remedies, 2012. Storey Publishing, North Adams, MA.
TIMELESS Essential Oils guarantees the purity and quality of all our therapeutic oils. The current Certificate of Analysis is available upon request. All essential oils are best stored in an airtight container away from heat and light.
