Frankincense has been treasured for thousands of years - so precious it was gifted alongside gold and myrrh in biblical times. Today, this ancient resin continues to captivate, with modern research beginning to validate what traditional medicine has long known: frankincense essential oil offers genuine benefits for skin, stress, and overall wellbeing.
But what does the science actually say? And how can you use frankincense safely and effectively?
In this guide, we'll explore the research-backed benefits of frankincense essential oil, separate fact from myth, and share practical ways to incorporate this remarkable oil into your daily routine.
What Is Frankincense Essential Oil?
Frankincense essential oil is steam-distilled from the resin of Boswellia trees, which grow in the dry, mountainous regions of India, Africa, and the Middle East. The word "frankincense" comes from the Old French term "franc encens," meaning "high-quality incense."
The resin has a distinctive warm, woody, slightly spicy aroma that's both grounding and uplifting. Several Boswellia species produce frankincense, with the most common being:
- Boswellia carterii - The most widely used variety, known for its balanced, classic frankincense scent
- Boswellia serrata (Indian frankincense) - Often used in supplements for its high boswellic acid content
- Boswellia sacra - Considered the most sacred variety, native to Oman and Yemen
- Boswellia frereana - A rare species prized for its particularly fragrant resin
The therapeutic properties of frankincense come primarily from compounds called boswellic acids and terpenes (including alpha-pinene and limonene). These active components are responsible for the oil's anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potential anti-aging effects.
1. May Support Skin Health and Reduce Signs of Ageing
One of the most popular uses for frankincense essential oil is skincare, and emerging research supports its potential anti-ageing benefits.
A 2023 study published in PLOS ONE examined the anti-photoaging effects of frankincense oil in rats exposed to UVB radiation. The researchers found that frankincense oil helped protect against UV-induced skin damage by inhibiting inflammatory pathways and supporting collagen production. Treated animals showed thinner epidermal layers and denser collagen fibres compared to untreated groups.
Research on human dermal fibroblasts (skin cells) found that frankincense essential oil affected signalling pathways related to inflammation and tissue remodelling, suggesting potential benefits for skin health.
Potential skin benefits include:
- Reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles
- Supporting skin elasticity and firmness
- Helping to fade the appearance of scars and stretch marks
- Promoting an even skin tone
- Soothing dry or irritated skin
How to use: Dilute 1 - 2 drops of frankincense essential oil in a tablespoon of carrier oil (such as jojoba, rosehip, or sweet almond oil) and apply to clean skin. You can also add a drop to your regular moisturiser.
2. May Help Reduce Stress and Anxiety
Frankincense has been used in religious and spiritual practices for millennia, valued for its ability to create a sense of calm and contemplation. Modern research is beginning to explain why.
A fascinating study by Johns Hopkins University and Hebrew University found that incensole acetate - a compound found in frankincense resin - activates ion channels in the brain called TRPV3, which are involved in emotional regulation. When tested in mice, this compound showed anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) and antidepressant-like effects.
A 2019 study confirmed that compounds in frankincense, including incensole and incensole acetate, can activate ion channels in the brain that help alleviate anxiety or depression. Another study found that frankincense essential oil significantly reduced corticosterone (stress hormone) levels in sleep-deprived rats.
While more human studies are needed, the aromatherapeutic use of frankincense for relaxation and stress relief has strong traditional support and promising preliminary research.
How to use: Add 3 - 5 drops to your essential oil diffuser during meditation, yoga, or whenever you need to unwind. You can also inhale directly from the bottle or apply diluted oil to your pulse points.
3. May Have Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The boswellic acids in frankincense have been extensively studied for their anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds work by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX), an enzyme involved in the production of inflammatory molecules called leukotrienes.
A 2018 review found that frankincense (specifically Boswellia extracts) was consistently more effective than a placebo at reducing osteoarthritis pain and improving mobility, though the researchers noted that more high-quality studies are needed.
In another study, participants taking 169.33mg of Boswellia extract twice daily for 120 days experienced reduced inflammation, joint pain, and stiffness in mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis without serious side effects.
It's worth noting that most studies on frankincense and inflammation use oral supplements rather than essential oil. However, topical application of diluted frankincense oil may still offer localised anti-inflammatory benefits.
How to use: For sore muscles or joints, dilute frankincense essential oil in a carrier oil (5 - 6 drops per tablespoon) and massage into affected areas.
4. May Support Respiratory Health
Traditional medicine has used frankincense to treat respiratory conditions for centuries. Research suggests this traditional use may have merit.
The boswellic acids in frankincense appear to prevent the production of leukotrienes, which can cause bronchial muscles to constrict. In one study, 70% of participants with asthma reported improvements in symptoms - including reduced wheezing and shortness of breath - after receiving 300mg of frankincense daily for six weeks.
While this research involved oral supplementation rather than aromatherapy, inhaling frankincense essential oil may still support respiratory comfort due to its calming properties and pleasant, clearing aroma.
How to use: Diffuse frankincense essential oil to help create a clear, fresh atmosphere. You can also add a few drops to a bowl of steaming water and inhale the vapours (keeping eyes closed).
5. May Support Oral Health
The antibacterial properties of frankincense may extend to oral health. Research suggests that boswellic acids have strong antibacterial effects that could help prevent and treat oral infections.
In a test-tube study, frankincense extract was effective against Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, a bacteria that causes aggressive gum disease. Another small study found that participants who chewed gum containing frankincense had reduced numbers of oral microbes.
How to use: Add a single drop of frankincense to your toothpaste when brushing, or use a frankincense-infused mouthwash. Always ensure you're using 100% pure essential oil.
6. May Aid Relaxation and Sleep
The calming, grounding aroma of frankincense makes it a natural choice for bedtime routines. Its traditional use in meditation and spiritual practices speaks to its ability to quiet the mind.
While specific research on frankincense and sleep is limited, studies on its stress-reducing and anxiolytic properties suggest it could help create the right mental state for restful sleep. The compound incensole acetate has been shown to have sedative effects in animal studies.
Many people find that diffusing frankincense before bed helps them transition from the busyness of the day to a more peaceful, sleep-ready state.
How to use: Diffuse frankincense in your bedroom 30 minutes before sleep. Combine with lavender essential oil for enhanced relaxation. You can also apply a drop diluted in carrier oil to the soles of your feet or chest.
7. May Support Immune Function
Research has identified frankincense as having immune-modulating properties - meaning it can help regulate immune system activity. This traditional use has some scientific support.
Studies suggest that frankincense compounds may help support the body's natural defence mechanisms. The boswellic acids and other active compounds in frankincense have demonstrated antibacterial and antimicrobial effects in laboratory studies.
A study published in Letters in Applied Microbiology found that combining frankincense oil with myrrh oil was particularly effective against certain pathogens - a pairing that has been used together since at least 1500 BC.
How to use: Diffuse frankincense regularly, particularly during winter months. Combine with other immune-supporting oils like tea tree, eucalyptus, or lemon.
8. May Help Improve Digestive Comfort
Traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda, have long used frankincense to support digestive health. Modern research provides some support for this traditional use.
A 2017 study found that frankincense, in combination with other herbal medicines, reduced abdominal pain, bloating, and even associated depression and anxiety in people with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
Another study showed that Boswellia 250mg tablets taken daily for six months improved symptoms in people with IBS. Research also suggests frankincense may be particularly effective at reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory gut condition.
Note: These studies used oral supplements. Do not ingest frankincense essential oil without professional guidance.
How to use: Dilute frankincense essential oil in a carrier oil and massage gently onto the abdomen in a clockwise direction to help ease digestive discomfort.
9. May Support Wound Healing and Scar Reduction
Frankincense has been traditionally used to support wound healing, and research suggests this use has merit.
Studies indicate that frankincense oil may help reduce scar formation by affecting the inflammatory and tissue remodelling processes involved in wound healing. Its antibacterial properties may also help keep wounds clean.
Many people use frankincense oil to help reduce the appearance of existing scars, stretch marks, and blemishes, though results vary between individuals.
How to use: Once a wound has closed, apply diluted frankincense oil (2 - 3 drops in a tablespoon of carrier oil like rosehip or jojoba) to the affected area twice daily. Be patient - improvements in scar appearance can take weeks or months of consistent use.
10. Creates a Grounding, Meditative Atmosphere
Perhaps the oldest and most consistent use of frankincense is in spiritual and meditative practices. Its warm, resinous aroma has been used for hundreds of years to create sacred spaces and deepen contemplation.
While this benefit is harder to quantify scientifically, the subjective experience of millions of users across cultures and centuries speaks to frankincense's remarkable ability to shift the mental and emotional atmosphere of a space.
Whether you're practising yoga, meditating, journaling, or simply seeking a moment of peace, frankincense can help create a sense of grounded calm.
How to use: Diffuse frankincense during meditation, yoga, or any reflective practice. Apply a drop to your palms, rub together, cup over your nose, and inhale deeply before beginning your practice.
Important Claims to Be Cautious About
While frankincense has genuine benefits, some claims need to be approached with caution:
Cancer treatment: While some laboratory studies show promising anticancer effects of boswellic acids against cancer cells, these are test-tube studies - not human trials. Frankincense is not a proven cancer treatment and should never replace conventional medical care. Always consult your healthcare provider.
Memory improvement: Claims that frankincense improves memory lack strong evidence. While some animal studies show potential, human research is insufficient.
Fertility enhancement: There's no solid scientific evidence that frankincense increases fertility.
Diabetes management: Claims that frankincense helps manage blood sugar are not well-supported by current research.
How to Use Frankincense Essential Oil
Frankincense is one of the gentler essential oils and can be used in several ways:
Aromatherapy (Diffusing)
Add 3 - 5 drops to your essential oil diffuser. This is the simplest way to enjoy frankincense's calming, grounding benefits. Works well on its own or blended with complementary oils.
Topical Application
Always dilute before applying to skin. Use 2 - 3 drops per tablespoon of carrier oil for general use, or 1 - 2% dilution for facial applications. Good carrier oil choices include:
- Jojoba oil - Excellent for facial use
- Sweet almond oil - Great all-purpose carrier
- Fractionated coconut oil - Light and easily absorbed
- Rosehip oil - Particularly good for anti-ageing applications
Inhalation
For quick stress relief, place 1 - 2 drops on a tissue or cotton ball and inhale deeply. You can also add a few drops to a bowl of steaming water and inhale the vapours with a towel over your head (eyes closed).
Bath
Add 4 - 6 drops of frankincense to a tablespoon of carrier oil or full-fat milk, then add to your bath water. This helps disperse the oil and prevents it from floating on the surface.
Blending Frankincense with Other Essential Oils
Frankincense blends beautifully with many other essential oils:
- For relaxation: Lavender, chamomile, ylang ylang
- For focus: Rosemary, peppermint, lemon
- For skin: Rose, geranium, lavender
- For grounding: Sandalwood, cedarwood, myrrh
- For immune support: Tea tree, eucalyptus, lemon
Safety Considerations
Frankincense essential oil is generally considered one of the safer essential oils, but precautions still apply:
- Always dilute: Never apply undiluted essential oil directly to skin
- Patch test: Before widespread use, apply a small amount of diluted oil to your inner arm and wait 24 hours to check for reactions
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Consult a healthcare provider before using frankincense during pregnancy or while nursing
- Children: Use extra caution and lower dilutions with children. Consult an aromatherapist or healthcare provider
- Pets: Many essential oils are toxic to cats and dogs. Keep frankincense out of reach and ensure pets can leave any room where you're diffusing. Contact your vet if uncertain
- Ingestion: Do not ingest frankincense essential oil unless under the guidance of a qualified healthcare professional
- Quality: Use only 100% pure essential oil from reputable sources. Avoid products labelled as "fragrance oil" or "perfume oil"
- Medications: If you're taking blood thinners, anti-inflammatory medications, or other medications, consult your doctor before using frankincense
The Bottom Line
Frankincense essential oil offers genuine benefits backed by both traditional wisdom and emerging scientific research. From potential skin health and anti-inflammatory effects to its well-established role in promoting relaxation and creating sacred spaces, this ancient oil continues to prove its worth in modern wellness practices.
While more human research is needed to fully understand all of frankincense's effects, its safety profile and centuries of successful use make it an excellent addition to any essential oil collection.
Browse our pure frankincense essential oil and discover why this has been one of the world's most treasured aromatics for thousands of years.