| Field | Detail |
|---|---|
| Botanical Name | Boswellia carterii |
| Pronunciation | FRANK-in-sens KAR-ter-eye |
| Plant Family | Burseraceae (Frankincense and Myrrh Family) |
| Plant Part Used | Dried Gum Resin (Oleo-gum) |
| Extraction Method | Steam Distillation |
| Origin Regions | Somalia, Oman, Yemen, and the Horn of Africa |
Description
Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) essential oil is one of the most revered and ancient aromatics in human history. Known as the “King of Oils,” it has been used for over 5,000 years for worship, healing, and spiritual renewal. Its scent — warm, resinous, slightly citrusy, and deeply meditative — evokes sacred spaces, desert winds, and timeless stillness.
The resin of the Frankincense tree is harvested by making small incisions in its bark, allowing the milky sap (known as tears) to harden before being distilled into essential oil. This slow, intentional process reflects the oil’s symbolic association with purification, patience, and divine presence.
Frankincense (Carterii) is the most commonly used and well-balanced of all frankincense varieties. It is renowned for its cell-regenerating, respiratory, and calming properties, supporting both physical vitality and emotional tranquility. Its grounding aroma helps deepen breathing, still the mind, and promote meditative clarity — a bridge between body and spirit.
History & Background
| Era / Region | Traditional Use | Notable Facts |
|---|---|---|
| Ancient Egypt | Ritual incense and embalming | Used in temples and cosmetics; burned for prayers to Ra and the sun gods |
| Ancient Judea & Arabia | Spiritual offerings | Mentioned in the Bible as one of the gifts brought to the Christ child |
| Greek & Roman Empires | Medicine and perfume | Used for digestion, wounds, and worship |
| Ayurveda | Anti-inflammatory and restorative | Known as salai guggul, used for joints and lungs |
| Modern Aromatherapy | Cellular and emotional balance | Used for meditation, skincare, and immunity |
Frankincense has long been called the “Oil of Kings,” symbolizing reverence, purity, and connection to the divine — both within and beyond oneself.
Aroma Profile
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Aroma Type | Warm, resinous, woody, slightly lemony and balsamic |
| Scent Strength | Medium (Base to Middle Note) |
| Blends Well With | Myrrh, Cedarwood, Sandalwood, Lavender, Bergamot, and Patchouli |
Frankincense enriches blends with depth and harmony, often serving as a base anchor oil in spiritual or skin-focused compositions.
Chemical Composition
| Compound | Approx. % | Function |
|---|---|---|
| α-Pinene | 35–45% | Grounding, respiratory support, anti-inflammatory |
| Limonene | 10–15% | Uplifting, cleansing, antioxidant |
| β-Pinene | 5–10% | Clarifying, antiseptic |
| Incensole | 2–5% | Calming, emotionally centering |
| p-Cymene | 2–4% | Cleansing, immune supportive |
| Sabinene | 1–3% | Gentle stimulant, circulation support |
This composition gives Frankincense (Carterii) its balanced synergy — grounding yet enlightening, purifying yet soothing.
Cautions & Safety
| Type | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Internal Use | Not for internal use. |
| Topical Use | Dilute to 2–3%. Generally very gentle and non-irritating. |
| Pregnancy / Children | Safe when properly diluted. Ideal for calming diffusion. |
| Photosensitivity | Non-phototoxic. |
| Storage | Store in dark glass away from direct sunlight and heat. |
Frankincense is one of the most well-tolerated essential oils, suitable for most skin types and age groups when properly diluted.
Uses & Application Steps
Frankincense essential oil is widely used for spiritual practice, respiratory support, and skin rejuvenation. Its soothing and harmonizing aroma centers the emotions and deepens mindfulness.
Aromatic Use
- Diffuse 3–4 drops during meditation, yoga, or prayer.
- Blend with Cedarwood and Sandalwood for a deeply grounding experience.
- Inhale directly for calm breathing and mental clarity.
Topical Use
- Dilute 2 drops in 1 teaspoon (5 mL) carrier oil.
- Apply to temples, chest, or wrists to center emotions.
- Add to face serums or creams for radiant, youthful skin.
Massage or Bath Use
- Mix 4–6 drops with 1 tablespoon carrier oil for a restorative massage.
- Combine with Lavender and Bergamot for emotional peace.
- Pre-dilute and add to warm bathwater for deep relaxation.
Spiritual & Emotional Use
- Diffuse during reflection or journaling to promote inner calm.
- Use as an anointing oil over the heart or crown before prayer.
- Blend with Myrrh and Palo Santo for grounding and sacred stillness.
Further Reading & External Links
| Source | URL |
|---|---|
| AromaWeb — Frankincense Essential Oil Profile | https://www.aromaweb.com/essential-oils/frankincense-essential-oil.php |
| Eden Botanicals — Frankincense Carterii Essential Oil | https://www.edenbotanicals.com/frankincense-carterii.html |
| Florihana — Frankincense Carterii Organic Essential Oil | https://www.florihana.com/us/essential-oils/136-frankincense-carterii-organic-3700343010592.html |
| Plant Therapy — Frankincense Carterii Essential Oil | https://www.planttherapy.com/products/frankincense-carterii-essential-oil |
| PubChem — α-Pinene Compound Summary | https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/compound/440967 |
Citations & References
- Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety (2nd ed.). Elsevier.
- PubChem Database — α-Pinene (CID: 440967).
- IFRA Standards, 2024 Update.
- AromaWeb — Frankincense Essential Oil Profile.
- Eden Botanicals — Frankincense Carterii Product Page.
Conclusion
Frankincense (Carterii) essential oil stands as a timeless symbol of renewal, reverence, and peace. It bridges the ancient and the modern — a sacred resin turned aromatic essence that continues to bring balance to body and spirit.
Emotionally, it instills serenity and focus. Physically, it supports clear breathing, healthy skin, and deep relaxation. Spiritually, it represents connection and transcendence, encouraging awareness beyond the surface of daily life.
Frankincense invites us to breathe more slowly, to remember stillness, and to find the sacred in the ordinary. Its gentle, luminous fragrance reminds us that peace isn’t something we chase — it’s something we allow.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for educational purposes only and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This content is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using any essential oil. Conduct your own research by reviewing all citations and references listed above.