Most probably only know about frankincense from the Christmas story of Jesus’ birth when the wise men brought Him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh (the last two are both essential oils). Just like in that time, frankincense today is an extremely valuable essential oil, which you will see reflected in its price compared to others. The name comes from Old French franc encens (“high-quality incense”).

Frankincense is one of my top five favorite essential oils. I use it nearly every day and it is well worth the cost to have on hand. It has a neutral woodsy scent that isn’t overwhelming to smell.

I mix a drop in with my face moisturizer each night. Cosmetically, it helps to clear skin of blemishes, smooths the skin and is anti-aging. The properties that help cosmetically also help emotionally (I put it on at night to calm before sleep) and physically. While it fights surface bacteria, it is also an effective immune stimulant. I use it on my & my daughter’s spine frequently when we are sick to safely kick our immune system into higher gear and recover more quickly.

Emotionally, it is extremely calming and can be smelled or used in a diffuser to reduce feelings of anxiety. It repels feelings of stress and brings focus.  It has been used in worship (think meditation) for thousands of years. I wrote a whole blog about that & essential oil use in the Bible here if you are interested.

Do you have frankincense? What’s your favorite way to use it?