Frankincense Essential Oil

Product Details Scientific Name: Boswellia Serrata Origin: India Plant Part: Resin Scent: Fresh, Woody, Balsamic, Spicy, and Fruity Color: Light Yellowish Consistency: Thin Perfumery Note: Base Initial Aroma Strength: Mild Medium Extraction Method: Steam Distilled Frankincense Essential Oil: Benefits, Uses, and Blends The word “frankincense” originates from Old French: the word franc— which means free, or pure—in combination with encens, which translates to incense. Coming from the resin of the Boswellia tree, frankincense is one of the world’s oldest commodities. The tree is native to Northern Africa and the Middle East, but can also be found in areas such as Oman and Yemen. Also known as olibanum, frankincense is a common ingredient in incense, oils, and perfumes. Due to increases in demand, over-exploitation, and the destruction of forests for agricultural use, it is important to ensure you are purchasing high-quality, sustainable frankincense essential oil. Where Does Frankincense Essential Oil Come From? As mentioned above, frankincense oil is extracted from the Boswellia tree. To get frankincense from the trees a tapper will cut into the trunk, extracting the sap. This sap then hardens into what we call resin. A tree must grow for about 8-10 years before it is large enough to tap, which means there can be quite a wait between the time planting occurs and when it is ready to harvest. After harvesting the sap, the resin then goes through a process of steam distillation, which creates the essential oil. VINEVIDA uses all-natural sources to ensure the resulting product is of the premium. If frankincense oil isn’t extracted properly it can result in an inferior product, illustrated by a duller color and a fainter aroma. Modern Uses of Frankincense Essential Oil Historically, frankincense is probably most famous for its starring role in the tale of the Three Wise Men. In this Christian Bible story depicting the birth of Jesus, three men arrive bearing gifts - one of which is frankincense. Archaeological history shows frankincense was often used by the Greeks and Romans in holy rituals, both of whom were large importers. Historical evidence in the form of the writings of Pliny the Elder—a Roman historian and botanist—shows us the many ancient uses of frankincense. Frankincense was a common ingredient in traditional medicines as well as being used as an insect repellent. Some people were even known to chew the edible resin, using it as a sort of gum. (Note that this was only pure resin, and it is never advisable to ingest any essential oil.) Today, frankincense oil is used for many varying things. In terms of holistic healing, this essential oil is a key component in aromatherapy, Chinese medicine, and Ayurveda. It is a common belief that frankincense essential oil benefits the skin, which is why it is often used as an additive in many popular cosmetic products. As expected of a product that has been around for thousands of years, the benefits of f