Action:  Expectorant, antitumoarl, immunostimulant, and antidepressant.

Traditional Uses:  Also known as "olibanum," or "Oil from Lebanon" the incense."  Frankincense is considered the "holy anointing oil" in the Middle East and has been used in religious ceremonies for thousands of years.  It was well known during the time of Christ for its anointing and healing powers and was one of the gifts given to Christ at His birth. "Used to treat every conceivable ill known to man," frankincense was valued more than gold during ancient times, and only those with great wealth and abundance possessed it.  Researchers today have discovered that the sequiterpenes in frankincense, help stimulate the limbic system of the brain (the center of emotions) as well as the hypothalamus, pineal and pituitary glands.  The hypothalamus is the master gland of the human body, controlling the release of many hormones including thyroid and growth hormone.  Frankincense is now being researched and used therapeutically in European hospitals and is being investigated for its ability to improve human growth hormone production.

Indications:  Asthma, depression, and ulcers.

Other Uses:  This oil may help with allergies, bites (insect and snake), bronchitis, cancer, respiratory infections, diphtheria, headaches, hemorrhaging, herpes, high blood pressure, inflammation, stress, tonsilitis, typhoid, and warts.  It contains sesquiterpenes, enabling it to go beyond the blood brain barrier where it is elevating to the mind and helps to overcome stress and despair.  It also increases the activity of leukocytes in defense of the body against infection.

Application:  Diffuse or apply topically.  May be added to food or rice milk as a dietary supplement.

Fragrant Influence:  Frankincense increases spiritual awareness and promotes meditation.  Frankincense may also help improve attitude and uplift spirits.

Safety Data:  If pregnant or under a doctor's care, consult physician.

Companion Oils:  All oils.

Bible Reference:  There are over 52 references to frankincense--considering that "incense" is translated from the Hebrew/Greek "frankincense"  and is referring to the same oil.  (See additional Bible references in Appendix C.)

Exodus 30:34--"And the Lord said unto Moses, Take unto thee sweet spices, stacte, and onycha, and galbanum; these sweet spices with pure frankincense:  of each shall there be a like weight:"

Leviticus 2:1--"And when any will offer a meat offering unto the Lord, his offering shall be of fine flour; and he shall pour oil upon it, and put frankincense thereon:"

Leviticus 2:2--"And he shall bring it to Aaron's sons the priests: and he shall take thereout his handful of the flour thereof, and of the oil thereof, with all the frankincense thereof; and the priest shall burn the memorial of it upon the altar, to be an offering made by fire, of a sweet savour unto the Lord:"