Frankincense Oil: Why You’ll Want To Experiment With This Age-Old Healing Agent
July 6, 2011 by Penny Livegood
Filed under Skin Care
Revered for centuries, Frankincense has been related with practices of spirit of any natural plant material in civilizations around the world. Used by a large number of advanced cultures, Frankincense in religious and domestic life. The resin extracted from the desert trees has been sought after by monarchs, has been one of the most highly valued substances, and been one of history’s most remembered gifts. Now, the essential oil is increasing in use with the spiritually aware and natural health supporters. What makes this plant product so sought after, and how could you make use of its therapeutic properties?
The desert shrub from which Frankincense is harvested at first is somewhat plain in appearance. It looks like a large shrub, with several crooked branches and slim silvery leaves. Plus sometimes rare, tiny white flowers. Originally found in North Africa, the tree appears hearty and appropriate for its environment. It even lookslike it belongs in the desert. The sap is collected with an incision using knife, then the exuding sap is saved. Thought the tree is not harmed in the process. The liquid resin forms drops known as tears or pearls, that dry and become a hard earthen colored gum known itself as Frankincense.
Modern natural therapies and aromatherapy have taken to the use of the essential oil of Frankincense. The essential oil, with a great aroma, is distilled using steam or other high-tech processes from the resin. There’s a few species of Olibanum shrub from which the resin is harvested and the essential oil extracted, the most common is. There is a large amount of research available on the extracts and resins of both species. The new modern CO2 distillations have more of the molecules found in the resin itself, and may be a better choice for health reasons..
The essential oil is thought by professional practitioners to be filled with diverse collection of therapeutic applications. For skin care, it is thought to be one of the premier oils for addressing prematurely aging skin. The desert-adapted trees somehow belie this use; the essential oil may be particularly helpful for skin excessively exposed to sunlight. Laboratory research has proven the effects, by examining Frankincense extracts in skin care preparations against controls on study participants. The data indicate statistically significant improvement in skin appearance with the application of the extracts.
Perhaps the most important actions of Frankincense are its anti-cancer actions. The extract is the aromatherapy product examined for this property more than any other, with very positive outcomes. The oils are noted to destroy malignant cells directly, yet leaving healthy cells unaffected. This occurs regardless of the cancer cell line tested.
The most immediate and pronounced aroma-therapeutic effect of the essential oil can be on the emotional and mental state for many people. Frankincense oil contains sesquiterpenes, which stimulate the limbic system, the hypothalamus, the pineal and the pituitary glands, and may increase human growth hormone production. This overall tonic action to the mind also seems to be directly affecting the immune system for some individuals, bringing additional strength and reserve along with peace of mind.
Frankincense, the treat from the tough desert tree, is now available to us all. Treat yourself to a little of this natural wonder, and see what sort of magic it can bring to your life!
Interested in learning more? You’ll find a wealth of information on aromatherapy and using essential oils may be found at www.anandaapothecary.com/essential-oils.html.