11/05/2020
So Here is No 1 Oil - Frankincense on the Yoga Mat !Frankincense was one of the three gifts to Jesus after his birth, and it is now a popular choice to fragrance the home at Christmas time (Marks and Spencer do a lovely candle). It is hardly surprising that it’s woody, spicy aroma reminds some people of churches, especially at Christmas, because the oil is used in many Christian churches for aiding meditation. Its note what we call base which means that the benefits last for longer in the body unlike the citrusy top notes that give you that instant hit. It also means the smell is a sweeter, spicier, warmer smell.
Frankincense, sometimes known as Olibanum, is a resin formed from the bark of the Boswellia species; it originates from Africa, Western India and Southern Arabia and was traditionally used as a medicine and in cosmetic preparations. Nowadays, Somalia and Ethiopia, where the Boswellia trees are found in abundance this is a relief as they were becoming in danger of extinction. The tree sap was literally crying.
Frankincense has many pharmacological properties including being anti-microbial and anti-inflammatory, The dried gum resin of Boswellia carterii has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to alleviate pain and inflammation for thousands of years – this means it is great for inflamed joints and arthritic conditions may help reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Also known to be good for calming the digestive system for IBS.
Frankincense essential oil is considered to be non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitising. For those suffering from the painful symptoms of sinusitis, put a couple of drops onto a tissue and inhale or put a few drops into a candle burner or aromatherapy diffuser.
Reputed to be an excellent oil for stress-relief and for aiding relaxation, Frankincense may also be inhaled to induce feelings of calmness and wellbeing
While it blends well with many other aromatherapy essential oils, this week I am using one drop by itself in a large teaspoon of jojoba carrier oil. I tried it in grapeseed nowhere near as nice so worth using the jojoba it does feel nicer – here’s the photo below 3-4days in the morning on top of vit C Tetra Medi8- literally no filters- Need to sort that pigmentation out when I get back to work though