Wait, Frankincense Extract in a Diffuser? Let’s Break This Down
First off, let’s get straight to the question you’re asking: Can you swap frankincense extract for essential oil in your electric diffuser? The short answer? It’s complicated—but let’s dive in so you don’t end up wasting product (or money).
First, What Even Is Frankincense Extract?
You mentioned your extract is meant for internal use, right? And it’s got vegetable glycerin? Oh, honey, hold up—if that’s the case, you do NOT want to put that in your diffuser. Let me tell you why: glycerin is thick, sticky, and not designed to be vaporized. It’ll gunk up your diffuser’s mechanism faster than you can say “aromatherapy fail.” Plus, if it’s formulated for eating, why on earth would you blast it into the air? That’s just… not its job.
And hey, if you’re set on internal use, splurge on therapeutic-grade oils that are actually safe to ingest. Yeah, they’re pricey—like $60 to $90 for 15mL pricey—but trust me, it’s worth it. You don’t want to risk ingesting something that’s not meant for that. Safety first, always!
Is Diffusing Frankincense Extract Even a Good Idea?
Let’s talk environmental sense here. If your extract is the expensive internal kind, diffusing it is such a waste. Think about it: you’re blowing a pricey product into the air where most of it just dissipates. Not exactly budget-friendly or eco-conscious, right? So unless you find a cheaper extract specifically made for diffusing (which I haven’t seen much of), save your $$.
Instead, try these better alternatives:
- Direct skin application: Dab a tiny bit (diluted, if it’s oil!) on your wrists or neck. You’ll get the scent up close, and it lasts longer.
- Resin with a charcoal burner: This is the OG way to use frankincense! Just heat some charcoal, toss on the hard resin crystals, and let that warm, earthy scent fill the room. It’s way more authentic and less wasteful.
Extract vs. Essential Oil: What’s the Difference?
Let’s get nerdy for a sec (but in a casual way, promise). There are two main ways to get oils from plants: steam distillation (the usual method for essential oils) and alcohol extraction (used for extracts). Extracts are often called “absolutes” when they’re made this way—like rose absolute, which I love, by the way!
I’ve used rose absolute in my water-based diffuser before, and it smells amazing. But here’s the catch: if I’m using it for therapeutic benefits (like calming or skincare), I always pick steam-distilled essential oils over extracts. Why? Because steam distillation keeps more of the plant’s natural compounds intact, which are what give essential oils their healing properties. Extracts are great for scent, but not so much for the “therapeutic” part.
So, Can You Actually Use Frankincense Extract in a Diffuser?
Okay, let’s wrap this up. If your extract is the glycerin-based, internal kind? No way—don’t do it. It’ll mess up your diffuser and is a waste. But if you have an absolute (alcohol-extracted) that’s meant for aromatic use? Maybe, but keep these in mind:
- Check the label: Make sure it’s safe for diffusing (some absolutes are still meant for topical use only).
- Dilute it: Absolutes are super concentrated, so mix a drop or two with water or a carrier oil first.
- Know your goal: If you want scent, go for it! If you want therapeutic benefits, stick to steam-distilled essential oils.
Final Thoughts: Save the Extract for Eating, Diffuse the Right Stuff
At the end of the day, frankincense extract has its place—like in teas, tinctures, or even skincare (if it’s formulated for that). But your diffuser? Stick to oils that are made for it. Whether it’s steam-distilled essential oil or a high-quality absolute, make sure it’s the right product for the job. Your nose (and your diffuser) will thank you!
