What Is Frankincense Used For

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Frankincense is a resin with a wide range of traditional and contemporary uses, primarily in health, wellness, and beauty applications[1].

  • It is commonly used to relieve anxiety, stress, and depression, believed to enhance mood and well-being through neuro-active components that may rebalance hormones[1].
  • Frankincense has notable anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful for managing arthritis, reducing joint pain and stiffness, and supporting gut health in conditions such as Crohn’s disease[1][2][5].
  • It helps promote the regeneration of skin cells, reduce scars and blemishes, and improve skin elasticity, which is why it is used in skincare[1][3].
  • Frankincense contributes to oral health by providing antibacterial effects, helping to prevent and treat mouth infections, bad breath, and other oral issues[1][5][6].
  • It is traditionally used to improve asthma and bronchitis, and modern research confirms compounds in frankincense may prevent bronchiole constriction[1][7].
  • Frankincense is associated with enhanced brain health, including improved circulation, possible memory retention benefits, and support of brain function[2].
  • It shows promise in helping to manage diabetes by lowering blood glucose and cholesterol levels when used as a supplement[2].
  • Anti-microbial, pain-relieving, expectorant, and immune-modulating effects are also attributed to frankincense in traditional and modern medicine[3][6][7].
  • Some laboratory studies suggest that frankincense may have anti-cancer properties, as boswellic acids could help inhibit tumor cell growth and proliferation, though more research is needed in humans[5][7][8].
  • Additional traditional uses include controlling bleeding, promoting wound healing, and improving uterine health[8].

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