What Even Is Frankincense Essential Oil, Anyway?
Let’s start with the basics—because if you’re here, you’ve probably heard this oil is a big deal, but maybe you’re not 100% sure why. Frankincense comes from the resin of Boswellia trees (those gnarly, desert-dwelling ones), and people have been using it for thousands of years—like, ancient Egyptians used it in perfumes and mummification, which is wild, right? Today, it’s all about that earthy, slightly woody scent that feels both grounding and fancy. But enough history—let’s get to the good stuff: how to actually use it!
1. Diffuse It for Calm (My Go-To Stress Buster)
First up, diffusing. This is probably the most common way people use frankincense, and for good reason. That warm, earthy aroma? It’s like a hug for your brain. I swear, whenever I’m feeling overwhelmed by work emails or my to-do list is screaming at me, I pop 3-4 drops into my diffuser, and within 5 minutes, I’m like, “Okay, maybe today isn’t so bad.”
But wait—did you know it’s not just about relaxation? Frankincense has natural antibacterial properties too! Mix a few drops with water in a spray bottle, and you’ve got a DIY air freshener that kills yucky germs and makes your room smell like a fancy spa. Pro tip: Spray it in your bedroom before bed—game-changer for falling asleep faster. No more tossing and turning!
2. Topical Use: Slow Down Aging (Yes, Really)
Hold up—before you slather frankincense directly on your face, let’s get one thing straight: essential oils are super concentrated, so you must dilute them with a carrier oil (like jojoba, coconut, or sweet almond oil). I learned this the hard way once—let’s just say my skin was not happy. So rule #1: 2-3 drops of frankincense per teaspoon of carrier oil. Got it?
Now, why bother with topical use? Frankincense is a rockstar for skin. It’s got antioxidants that fight free radicals (the stuff that causes wrinkles), and a lot of people swear it reduces the look of fine lines and dark spots. I mix mine with rosehip oil (another anti-aging hero) for a homemade serum—apply it at night, and wake up with skin that feels smoother. Trust me, it’s way cheaper than those fancy department store serums.
Oh, and if you’re having a stressful day? Add a few drops to a warm bath! The steam helps the scent sink in, and the oil moisturizes your skin while you relax. It’s like a mini spa day at home—no appointment needed.
3. Hair Care: Strengthen Those Roots
Okay, this one was a surprise to me. I have fine hair that breaks easily, so I’m always trying new things to make it stronger. A friend told me to add a drop of frankincense to my shampoo, and I was like, “Really? Oil in shampoo?” But guess what? It works! Frankincense has toning properties that help strengthen hair follicles. I’ve noticed less breakage since I started doing this—plus, my hair smells amazing all day.
Pro tip: If you have a dry scalp, mix a drop of frankincense with coconut oil and massage it into your roots before showering. Leave it on for 10 minutes, then wash it out. Your scalp will feel so hydrated—no more itchy, flaky bits!
4. DIY Cleaning: Natural & Effective
Let’s talk about cleaning—because who wants to use harsh chemicals that make your eyes water? Frankincense is a natural disinfectant, so it’s perfect for homemade cleaners. Here are my two go-to recipes:
- Scrub for Greasy Surfaces: Mix 1 cup baking soda, 10 drops frankincense, and 5 drops lemon essential oil. Add a little water to make a paste, then scrub your stovetop or sink. It cuts through grease like a champ, and your kitchen will smell fresh (not like chemicals).
- All-Purpose Spray: Fill a spray bottle with 2 cups water, 10 drops frankincense, and 5 drops thyme essential oil. Shake it up and use it on countertops, doorknobs, or even your phone screen. It kills germs without the icky residue.
Seriously, once you try these, you’ll never go back to store-bought cleaners. My husband even commented on how nice the house smells now—win-win!
5. Spiritual Practices: Boost Intuition
I know this might sound a little woo-woo, but hear me out. For centuries, people have used frankincense in meditation and spiritual rituals because its scent is thought to enhance intuition and connect you to a deeper sense of calm. I like to diffuse it while I meditate—something about that earthy aroma helps me focus and let go of distractions. Even if you’re not into spirituality, it’s a great way to slow down and be present.
How Is Frankincense Oil Made, Anyway?
Curious about where your oil comes from? Let me break it down. First, harvesters make small cuts in Boswellia tree bark—this causes the tree to secrete a sticky resin (those are the “crystals” you might hear about). The resin is left to harden, then collected and either steam-distilled or CO2-extracted to get the essential oil. The result? That rich, earthy scent we all love. Cool, right?
Pro Tips for Storing Frankincense Oil
To make sure your oil lasts as long as possible, store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight (a cabinet under the sink works great). Keep the lid tightly closed—oxygen can make the oil go bad faster. If you do this, your frankincense oil should stay good for 2-3 years. No more wasting money on expired oils!
Final Thoughts: Is Frankincense Oil Worth It?
Absolutely. Whether you’re looking to de-stress, improve your skin, or clean your house naturally, frankincense oil is a versatile powerhouse. Just remember to dilute it for topical use, and you’re good to go. I’ve been using it for a year now, and it’s become a staple in my self-care routine. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!
