10 Healing Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense essential oil benefits are so profound that it’s not only known as the “King of Oils”, it is one the most popular natural remedies on the market today. And for good reason! It’s anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer power has been on the radar of researchers around the globe for several years now, and science is starting to catch up to traditional folk medicine regarding the therapeutic properties of frankincense!

How was Frankincense Used in History?

Interestingly, frankincense has always been in high demand and history tells us many fascinating things about how ancient cultures used it.

Tradition tells us that, in Babylon, nearly 60,000 pounds of frankincense resin burned annually for its aromatics and its role in rituals. Later, we see the Magi bringing frankincense along with gold and myrrh to the infant Jesus. More than a costly, fragrant gift, frankincense essential oil benefits are well documented and have made this tree resin famous today.

Ayurvedic medicine, in practice for centuries, uses frankincense (referred to as “dhoop” and is used as “dhoopan”) for wound healing, female hormonal issues, arthritis, and air purification. In many cultures – including Somali, Ethiopian, Arabian, and Indian – frankincense essential oil benefits have daily uses. Burning it in the house is said to bring good health, and burning it in the evening is meant to purify the home and the residents’ clothing.

Healing Properties of Frankincense Oil & Resin

Frankincense (Boswellia carterii, Boswellia serrata, and the other Boswellia species), as with all plants and their essential oils, carries many different molecules with different purposes. Some stand out as prominent in certain substances, as is the case with boswellic acids (BAs) in frankincense.

However, ask any chemist and they will tell you that BAs are too large to pass the steam distillation process. Oddly enough, there are still bad essential oil studies that claim they are indeed part of frankincense oil. Subsequently, the jury is still out as to the exact mechanism(s) explaining why frankincense essential oil benefits cancer patients, seems to encourage cancer cell death, and so on.

Nonetheless, the healing benefits of frankincense resin have traditionally centered on disease prevention and anti-inflammatory properties, and researchers have been able to confirm in vitro that boswellic acids contain a potent ability to modify the immune system as well. Part of having a more efficient immune system is the regulation of inflammation, as well, which can have effects topically or systemically.

At this point, I’m sure you’ve heard of the so-called “frankincense cancer cure” that has gone viral over the past few years. Why? Because several studies claim that frankincense essential oil benefits have demonstrated anti-cancer properties and the ability to mitigate many different kinds of cancer cells. As more studies are conducted, the implications of this ability will be exciting to watch unfold!

The jury is still out as to the exact mechanism(s) explaining why frankincense is helpful to cancer patients. However, advances in recent research suggest that Beta-elemene – a cancer-fighting terpene found in frankincense and myrrh with the ability to cross the blood-brain barrier – may be partly responsible.

As stated by the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center,

“Beta-elemene is a compound found in plants such as celery, mint, and in many others used in traditional medicine. Although the pure form is not used as a dietary supplement, some cancer patients use herbs high in beta-elemene as treatment. Beta-elemene was shown to prevent growth of cancer cells in laboratory cells by different mechanisms. A few poorly designed studies done in humans showed that it may improve the quality of life in cancer patients. It is unclear if raw herbs containing beta-elemene have the same effects in humans. More research is needed.”

Some even suggest that the amount of β-elemene that frankincense and myrrh contain could very well explain why so many people claim that both oils have been instrumental to them beating cancer God’s way.

At the end of the day, once we know the basic properties of an herb, root, and resin we are able to determine the best ways to utilize it. Let’s take a closer look at what the components of frankincense essential oil benefits mean for our daily lives…

10 Frankincense Essential Oil Benefits

For centuries, frankincense essential oil has been revered for its powerful healing properties, and today, modern research is validating what ancient traditions have long knownWhether diffused, applied topically, or blended with carrier oils, frankincense can support overall health in profound ways. Here’s how this God-given oil can help you on your journey to wellness.

1. Anti-Inflammatory Support for Arthritis & Joint Pain

Chronic inflammation is at the root of many diseases, and frankincense essential oil is one of the most powerful natural anti-inflammatories available. Research shows that frankincense helps inhibit 5-lipoxygenase, a key enzyme responsible for inflammatory responses in conditions like arthritis and joint disorders. In a study published in Phytotherapy Research, participants with osteoarthritis experienced significant pain reduction and improved mobility after using frankincense extract.

Application: For relief, massage a blend of frankincense and copaiba essential oil diluted in a carrier oil directly onto sore joints to reduce swelling and stiffness.

2. Respiratory Health & Asthma Relief

Frankincense has long been used to support respiratory function, particularly for conditions like asthma, COPD, and chronic bronchitis. Research published in Pulmonary Pharmacology & Therapeutics found that inhaling frankincense helped relax bronchial muscles, reducing airway inflammation and improving oxygen flow.

Application: For natural lung support, diffuse frankincense with eucalyptus and peppermint or apply a diluted chest rub before bed to ease breathing and reduce nighttime coughing.

3. Cognitive Function & Alzheimer’s Prevention

Brain health is a growing concern, and frankincense offers neuroprotective benefits that may help prevent cognitive decline. Studies suggest that its anti-inflammatory properties can protect brain cells from oxidative damage, which is a key contributor to Alzheimer’s and dementia. Research in Frontiers in Aging Neuroscience indicates that frankincense essential oil can help support memory retention and mental clarity.

Application: For cognitive support, diffuse frankincense with rosemary and peppermint during the day or massage a blend onto the temples and the back of the neck.

4. Skin Rejuvenation & Wound Healing

Known for its ability to regenerate skin cells and accelerate healing, frankincense is a staple for those looking to improve skin texture, reduce scarring, and treat wounds naturally. Studies show that frankincense enhances fibroblast activity, which helps in skin repair and collagen production. A study in Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicineconfirmed that frankincense promotes faster wound healing and reduces inflammation.

Application: Apply a mixture of frankincense and jojoba oil to scars, sun spots, or minor wounds to support the body’s natural healing process.

5. Immune System Boost & Infection Prevention

Frankincense isn’t just for relaxation—it’s a powerful immune booster that can help the body defend itself against chronic infections. Research in International Immunopharmacology found that frankincense enhances white blood cell activity, strengthening the body’s natural defense mechanisms.

Application: Whether you’re fighting off a cold or looking to strengthen your immune system, diffusing frankincense daily or applying a drop diluted in coconut oil to the soles of the feet can provide lasting protection.

6. Heart Health & Circulation Improvement

Frankincense essential oil may also play a role in improving cardiovascular health by reducing high blood pressure and promoting circulation. Boswellic acids have been found to reduce plaque buildup in arteries, lowering the risk of heart disease and stroke. A study in Phytomedicine noted that frankincense extract improved blood flow and vascular function.

Application: For heart support, blend frankincense with cypress and rosemary essential oils and massage onto the chest or legs to encourage circulation.

7. Stress Relief & Emotional Balance

Stress is a leading contributor to chronic disease, and frankincense is a powerful oil for calming the mind and balancing emotions. Studies show that inhaling frankincense reduces cortisol levels, promoting relaxation and reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression. A clinical trial in Journal of Complementary Therapies in Medicine found that hospice patients who used frankincense experienced significant improvements in mood and emotional well-being.

Application: Diffuse frankincense with lavender and chamomile before bed or add a few drops to a warm bath for deep relaxation.

8. Gut Health & Digestive Support

Frankincense is a gut-friendly essential oil that can help soothe digestive disorders like IBS, Crohn’s disease, and leaky gut syndrome. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help balance gut bacteria and reduce bloating, cramping, and irritation. Research in Molecules highlights its ability to protect the gut lining and prevent damage from chronic inflammation.

Application: For digestive relief, dilute frankincense in a carrier oil and massage onto the abdomen in a circular motion.

9. Hormonal Balance & Menstrual Support

Women struggling with hormonal imbalances or painful menstrual cycles may find relief with frankincense. Research in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine shows that frankincense helps regulate estrogen levels and reduce cramping. When combined with clary sage and lavender, it can provide natural relief for PMS and menopausal symptoms. To support hormonal health, massage a blend of frankincense, clary sage, and ylang-ylang onto the lower abdomen or diffuse it to promote emotional stability.

10. Cancer Support & Tumor Suppression

While we do know that the various forms of frankincense (essential oils, extracts, pure resin, etc.) have the potential to fight cancer, much is left to be understood, making this a controversial topic in the natural health and research world.

Studies  continue to emerge, however, demonstrating the anti-cancer effects on bladder, breast, and skin cancers. For example, a recent research article was published that addressed frankincense oil benefits for people suffering from melanoma, a deadly form of malignancy. Due to the tendency of melanoma drug treatments to be associated with liver injuries, the researchers evaluated how high doses of frankincense impacted animals with acetaminophen-induced liver damage, and discovered that it not only “significantly reduced the tumor burden related to the melanoma,” but frankincense essential oil helped reverse the liver damage that the animals developed.

Frankincense, on the other hand, has shown remarkable effects against this particular problem. In 2011, a clinical trial evaluating 44 individuals monitored frankincense as a remedy for cerebral edema. In 60% of the patients, the swelling was reduced by 75% or more. The concluding remarks called for frankincense to be prescribed for cerebral edema in these circumstances, avoiding the struggles of steroid therapy.

For a similar call for a shift in treatment protocol, much more research must be done. Unfortunately, because cancer is such a deadly disease with a limited opportunity to administer effective treatments, testing the efficacy of alternative treatments, administering control studies, and adjusting administration and dosage all pose ethical roadblocks. So while specific answers may come slowly, it’s plain to see that the potential and properties exist. With little to no side effects associated with frankincense essential oil benefits, we have little to lose and much to gain when adding it to our daily routines or pairing it with cancer protocols. The resin, extracts, and even the essential il should all be considered as options to work in conjunction with an oncological approach.

Application: In spite of the “frankincense oil cancer cure” controversy, the powerful role that frankincense essential oil benefits play in immunity, inflammatory control, pain relief, and anti-cancer potential makes it a necessary supplement to have around the house “just in case.” Vaporizors, salves, supplementation, and diffusion are all beneficial ways to use it.

Some effective personal uses are to:

• Mix 10 drops of frankincense per 1 tablespoon of carrier oil of your choice, and apply over the tumor directly.
• Take 1 drop of frankincense with 1/2 teaspoon honey, maple syrup, or coconut oil.
• Put 3 drops into a gel capsule filled with olive oil and take with food.

Harness the Healing Power of Frankincense

Frankincense essential oil is a true gift from nature, offering a wealth of benefits for chronic disease management and overall wellness. Whether you need immune support, pain relief, or emotional balance, this sacred oil is an invaluable addition to your natural health toolkit. By incorporating it into your daily routine—through diffusion, massage, or inhalation—you can tap into its God-given healing properties and take a proactive approach to long-term health.

A Note About Frankincense Extract

According to the medical literature, the anti-inflammatory properties, more than any antibacterial properties, are the primary method of frankincense’s means of supporting immune function.The immune system is intricate and amazing, interacting with every system of the body to prevent and fight disease. One of the primary mechanisms of the immune system is the influx of white blood cells, or lymphocytes, the main defense method that the body has. Inflammation is another component of the immune system, but in an unhealthy body, it goes overboard and becomes problematic.

As mentioned above, because it contains boswellic acids, frankincense extract contains more prominent and specific immune-modulating properties. Phytotherapy Research, for example, published a study specifying that when mice ingested large doses of BA’s these immune-modulating results were uncovered:

• Cytokine production
• Slowed hypersensitivity
• Increased immunoglobins
• Improved T-cell interactions

Because the chemical constituency of the oil differs from the extract, we cannot assume that the same benefits are transferable to the oil, but it’s promising research nonetheless.

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