How to Use Frankincense Resin

Frankincense has been being used for thousands of years in the Middle East. Egyptian and Chinese civilizations used it and it is referenced in the Bible more than 50 times. The majority of frankincense is from trees in Somali and throughout the Arabian Peninsula but it is in markets around the world in its hardened form. Once the sap from the tree hardens, the resulting product is then known as frankincense resin.

Things You'll Need

• Frankincense resin
• Water
• Turmeric
• Essential oil

Instructions

1. Add powdered frankincense resin to water and mix thoroughly. Heating the water can help dissolve the resin. Drink this mixture to treat a cough or congestion.

2. Mix turmeric with the frankincense resin and pour the mixture into boiling water to make a tea. Ayurvedic medicine believes drinking this tea will relieve muscle pain and arthritis.

3. Combine frankincense resin with an essential oil and pour boiling hot water over it to create steam. This resembles aromatherapy and can help treat constricted airways and congestion, as well as promote relaxation. Essential oils that complement frankincense include, but aren't limited to, jasmine, lemon, pine, rose, lavender, orange and sandalwood.

Tips & Warnings

• Consult your doctor before ingesting frankincense resin if you take a blood-thinning medication. Never apply frankincense directly to a wound.

References

• Mountain Rose Herbs: Frankincense Resin and Powder Profile