Frankincense isn’t just for Christmas! It has year-round benefits for wellness, skincare, and emotional balance. Latin name: Boswellia Carterii.
Firstly, let us explain the difference between Frankincense essential oil and Co2 extract so you can choose the best option for your desired use.
Essential oil is produced through steam distillation, where steam pulls the volatile compounds from the resin. The resin comes from the Boswellia Tree which we source from Somaliland. It contains mostly volatile aromatic compounds (like α-pinene, limonene). It has a lighter, more familiar Frankincense scent. Frankincense essential oil is ideal for use in aromatherapy, it can support emotional balance, and it’s great used in skincare due to its smaller molecules that absorb quickly.
A Co2 Extract is made using supercritical carbon dioxide extraction, which uses CO₂ under high pressure to extract a broader range of compounds including plant or resin matter. The extract includes both volatile and heavier compounds (like boswellic acids, which are not present in steam-distilled oil). The aroma is often richer, deeper, and closer to the raw resin. Frankincense CO2 Extract can be used to soothe tension and soreness and throughout history it has been used to soothe inflammation. It’s also a great addition to skincare blends because it contains boswellic acids, which are known to have strong anti-inflammatory properties so it is beneficial to blemish prone skin.
What does Frankincense smell like?
Resinous & Earthy – Like fresh tree sap or woodsy balsam.
Slightly Citrus-like – Some varieties have a light lemony note.
Piney & Fresh – A bit like walking through a coniferous forest.
Warm & Slightly Spicy – A subtle sweetness with hints of spice.
Incense-like & Meditative – Deep, slightly smoky, and calming, often associated with spiritual rituals.
Here are some ways to use it:
- Skincare & Anti-Aging
- Add a few drops to your moisturiser (or any unscented base cream) or carrier oil to reduce fine lines, scars, and blemishes. Carrier oils like Jojoba and Rosehip are great for facial skin as the oils’ composition mimic’s the skin’s own sebum so it’s easily absorbed and deeply nourishing.
- Mix with aloe vera gel for a soothing after-sun treatment.
- Stress Relief & Meditation
- Diffuse in an ultrasonic diffuser it to create a calming atmosphere for meditation or relaxation.
- Apply (diluted) to pulse points for grounding and emotional balance.
- Soothe Stuffy Noses…
- Add a few drops to a bowl of steaming water and inhale deeply for a natural sense or clarity.
- Blend with eucalyptus essential oil and a little carrier oil (up to 3% dilution) and rub on your chest for a cleared, fresh feeling.
- Soothe your Body and Mind
- Combine with a carrier oil and massage onto sore muscles and joints.
- Add to a warm bath with plain, unscented Epsom salts for full-body relief.
- Support Relaxation
- Diffuse at bedtime to promote restful down-time and to create a lovely soothing atmosphere before bed.
- Blend with lavender and apply to the back of the neck, feet, pulse points or use in massage.
- DIY Cleaning
- Add to homemade cleaners for its naturally antibacterial properties and fresh scent.
- Mix with baking soda for a natural carpet deodoriser. Add a few drops and blend with the baking soda, then sprinkle on carpets. Leave for 20 minutes then vacuum up.
- Take an empty spray bottle and mix 3 drops with 2 drops of lemon essential oil and a tablespoon or castile soap and give it all a good shake. The naturally antibacterial effects of the oil will leave surfaces fresh and beautifully scented.
Frankincense is a powerful essential oil for emotional well-being, offering grounding, calming, and uplifting effects. Its warm, resinous aroma has been used for centuries in meditation, prayer, and spiritual practices to promote a deep sense of peace.
One of its key benefits is its ability to reduce feelings associated with worry and stress. Frankincense has been shown to help ease tension and create a sense of emotional balance – try it added to an oil burner, or it’s fabulously relaxing when used as an ingredient in a massage blend. Diffusing it or applying it topically (diluted) can help calm an overactive mind and bring clarity during stressful moments.
Frankincense also supports mood regulation. It promotes feelings of relaxation and emotional resilience. Its ability to help you relax means it can be ideal for meditation or mindfulness, helping to quiet racing thoughts and encourage inner stillness. Additionally, frankincense is known for its grounding and spiritual properties.
Whether diffused, inhaled, or used in personal blends, frankincense fosters emotional balance, making it a must-have for anyone looking to cultivate peace, clarity, and spiritual well-being.
