Frankincense

Last Editorial Review: 6/11/2021
Other Name(s):

Arbre à Encens, Bible Frankincense, Boswellia carteri, Boswellia sacra, Boswellie, Encens, Incense, Oleo-gum-resin, Oléo-Gomme-Résine, Oliban, Olibanum, Ru Xiang, Ru Xiang Shu.

Overview

Frankincense is the hardened gum-like material (resin) that comes from cuts made in the trunk of the Boswellia carteri tree. People use it to make medicine.

Frankincense is used for colic and intestinal gas (flatulence). It is sometimes applied to the skin in hand cream.

The essential oil of frankincense is used on the skin and by inhalation as a pain-killer.

How does it work?

There isn't enough information available to know how frankincense works.

QUESTION

Next to red peppers, you can get the most vitamin C from ________________. See Answer

Uses & Effectiveness

Insufficient Evidence to Rate Effectiveness for...

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of frankincense for these uses.

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate (detailed description of each of the ratings).

Side Effects

Frankincense seems safe for use by most adults. It might cause irritation when applied to the skin.

SLIDESHOW

Vitamin D Deficiency: How Much Vitamin D Is Enough? See Slideshow

Special Precautions & Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of frankincense during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Dosing

The appropriate dose of frankincense depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for frankincense. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

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References

Buckle J. Use of aromatherapy as a complementary treatment for chronic pain. Altern Ther Health Med 1999;5:42-51. View abstract.