Frankincense (Boswellia serrata)
Background
Frankincense (Boswellia serrata) holds a storied place in history, traveling spice routes for thousands of years as a prized aromatic resin. While long recognized as a traditional gift, this resinous oil offers a deeply grounding and meditative quality that remains highly valued in contemporary aromatherapy practice.
Why Species Matter Frankincense is a name given to aromatic resins tapped from several trees in the Boswellia family. The species matters because each produces a unique chemical fingerprint. While many in the West are familiar with Boswellia sacra or Boswellia carterii, the species utilized here is Boswellia serrata, often called “Indian frankincense.” This species has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic traditions for centuries. A bottle labeled only as “Frankincense” obscures which species is inside; the Latin name is the key to identifying the chemical families present and determining the safest, most effective application for your needs.
Purpose and Extraction
Frankincense is primarily used to promote a meditative state, support respiratory health, and encourage healthy skin tone and texture. This oil is obtained through steam distillation of the tree’s resin, a process vital for capturing the lighter, volatile aromatic compounds responsible for its therapeutic integrity.
Chemical Family and Empirical Action
Frankincense (Boswellia serrata) is characterized by a high concentration of monoterpenes, which provide its characteristic aromatic profile and therapeutic potency.
- Key Constituents: alpha-Pinene, alpha-Thujene, and Limonene
- Mechanism of Action: These monoterpenes interact with the respiratory and nervous systems and have been shown to possess antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
- Empirical Basis: Research indicates that these constituents support clear breathing and provide a grounding, steadying effect on the nervous system, providing a scientific basis for its traditional use in both respiratory care and meditation.
- Key Constituent: Serratol
- Mechanism of Action: This diterpene alcohol adds depth and contributes to the oil’s resinous quality and grounding influence.
Blending and Usage
- Aromatic Profile: Frankincense is a base note. It blends well with floral oils, such as Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), woody oils, such as Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides), and citrus oils, such as Bergamot (Citrus bergamia), because the resinous profile acts as an anchor, slowing the evaporation rate of lighter top notes and adding a sophisticated, meditative complexity to the blend.
- Diffuser Blends: To create a grounding sanctuary, blend 2 drops of Frankincense (Boswellia serrata) with 2 drops of Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) and 1 drop of Vetiver (Vetiveria zizanoides).
- Topical Blends: For a skin-supportive body oil, use a 1–2% dilution rate (approximately 6–12 drops of essential oil per 1 oz of carrier oil) using a nutrient-rich carrier, such as Jojoba oil (Simmondsia chinensis).
Safety Concerns
Frankincense is generally considered safe and non-toxic. It is not typically associated with skin sensitization; however, as with all essential oils, a patch test is recommended for those with hyper-sensitive skin.
- Recommended Dilution Rate: To ensure safe topical application, always dilute this oil in a carrier oil. A 1–2% dilution rate (approximately 6–12 drops of essential oil per 1 oz of carrier oil) is recommended for general adult use.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dark place, as oxidized oil is more likely to cause skin irritation.
- Consultation: Always consult with a healthcare professional if you are pregnant, nursing, or under medical supervision. Avoid internal use unless under the direct guidance of a qualified professional.
