Frankincense Essential Oil (Boswellia carterii)

Steam-distilled essential oil of Boswellia carterii resin, the iconic ancient aromatic. The essential oil concentrates the volatile aromatic compounds of the resin - primarily alpha-pinene, limonene, and incensole - into a usable liquid form for aromatherapy, perfumery, and skin care preparations.

Key Facts

Botanical name

Boswellia carterii (and related Boswellia species)

Plant part

Hardened resin tears

Extraction

Steam distillation

Primary aromatic compounds

Alpha-pinene, limonene, incensole, beta-caryophyllene

Aromatic character

Warm, balsamic, slightly citrus and woody, with sweet undertones

Common uses

Aromatherapy, perfumery, skin care, meditation

About Frankincense Essential Oil

Frankincense essential oil captures the volatile aromatic compounds of the Boswellia resin in liquid form. The exact composition varies by species: Boswellia carterii (the most-traded for essential oil) tends toward alpha-pinene dominance; Boswellia sacra has a slightly different profile; B. serrata (Indian Frankincense) is yet different. All are aromatic, balsamic, and grounding in character.

How to Use Frankincense Essential Oil

Diffusion: 3-6 drops in a diffuser; widely used in meditation aromatherapy. Topical blending: dilute to 1-2% in a carrier oil for skin application (about 6-12 drops per fluid ounce). Blend with: lavender, sandalwood, cedarwood, myrrh, rose, bergamot. For skin care: a popular addition to facial oils and balms for mature skin.

Safety Information

Always dilute essential oils before topical application. Patch test before broad use. Generally considered safe in moderate use during pregnancy after the first trimester. Keep out of reach of children. Do not consume internally without expert guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Frankincense oil smell like?
Warm, balsamic, slightly citrus and pine-like, with sweet undertones.

What's the difference between the resin and the essential oil?
Resin tears are the hardened sap; essential oil is the steam-distilled volatile aromatic extract of the resin. Resin is for burning; essential oil is for diffusion and topical use.

What essential oils blend well with Frankincense?
Lavender, sandalwood, cedarwood, myrrh, rose, bergamot, and many others.

Is Frankincense oil safe during pregnancy?
Generally considered safe in moderate use after the first trimester; consult a qualified healthcare provider.

What is incensole?
A compound unique to Boswellia species that has been the subject of pharmacological research on aromatic effects.

How concentrated is the oil compared to the resin?
Highly concentrated - a single drop of essential oil delivers aromatic compounds equivalent to a substantial quantity of resin.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.