Vital Force Naturals

Also known as olibanum, from the burseraceae family

‘Frankincense oil rekindles the inner light of the mind’ – Gabriel Mojay

What a wonderful oil, you can tell by just smelling it! Woody and spicy, it has a citrus lightness that belies its deep base note. The essential oil is steam distilled from the ‘tears’ of gum resin that form when the tree is cut (we all cry when we’re hurt!) In ancient times this was collected naturally but with demand it’s now done specifically for the purpose, although thankfully they only allow so many cuts to let the tree recover.

It’s been used in religion since antiquity and was as precious as gold, the Egyptians used it in the embalming process and it was much sought after for skincare, perfume and cosmetics. They charred the gum to produce a kohl for the eyes and body. Just as the aroma is deep and slow, so the oil has the ability to deepen and slow the breath, making it an ideal incense to burn for prayer and meditation. A very spiritual oil, frankincense always says to me ‘I know who you are, and I don’t care’, as if I can be myself totally, without judgement or prejudice. I guess that’s the reason it’s been used for prayer and meditation as it seems to open the soul and allow thought and contemplation. What a load of twaddle! I hear you cry! And you may be right. But the sense of smell is the quickest way into the brain and it goes directly into the limbic system which is concerned with emotion and memories and your inner most thoughts (more on that in a separate blog). So maybe I’m not just a hippy dippy yiny yangy witchy type and there’s some science (we’re so fond of these days) behind it all.

So what’s it good for? Well, as it slows the breathing frankincense is actually very valuable to the lungs and respiratory system. It stimulates the immune system and helps fight infections, alleviating asthma and coughs. Obviously this works as an inhalation but also when massaged onto the skin, around the throat, chest and upper back. The molecules enter the body through the skin and help to open the area up, as well as breathing in the wonderful aroma. A compress applied to the throat and chest will help open the chest and allow easier breathing and reduce a cough.

It is used in many cosmetics as it has great cell rejuvenating properties. Particularly good for slowing the aging process and reducing wrinkles, I use it in my face balms and creams. It has an astringent action which tightens pores and soothes inflammed skin, which makes it useful for damaged or acne skin too as it has wound healing properties. Because of it’s analgesic action it is a useful uterine tonic, especially for heavy periods, and safe for use in pregnancy although because of this, caution should be used and advice from a professional is recommended.

As it works on the nervous system to calm the emotions I have seen much success when treating depression and anxiety. The flow of stagnant Qi is smoothed and it has the ability to relax yet revitalise, it calms and centres the mind. In days gone by it was burnt to drive out evil spirits and helps break links with the past making it invaluable in times of grief and sadness. It helps us break free and allows the spirit to soar. Again, I think because of it’s propensity for deep thinking, meditation and prayer it really helps when one feels overwhelmed by sadness and loss. This also helps with concentration and being able to focus the mind.

Frankincense is definitely a favourite oil (but then, they all are!) and used a lot in my products, blending well with other spicy and floral oils.

And just out of interest, frankincense in mentioned a total of 22 times in the bible!