The Frankincense tree has perhaps the greatest historical association with spiritual practice of any plant on earth. In many great ancient cultures, it has played a significant role in religious and domestic life. Frankincense resin has been sought after by kings, and offered as a gift at the birth of one of history's most revered prophets, along with gold and the resin of a similar tree, Myrrh. In the modern world, the essential oil distilled from tree resin is gaining popularity with spiritual seekers and natural healers alike - what's so unique about this resin and oil with it's complex, earthy aroma, and how might we use it for our own benefit?

The name is derived from the medieval French 'franc', meaning 'pure' or 'free', and from the Latin 'incensium', meaning 'to smoke'. The Frankincense tree itself bears the appearance of a rugged survivor, with many knurled branches topped with abundant slim leaves. It is native to the deserts of North Africa, growing in some of the world's harshest environments. It is not the tree itself, however, but rather its sap that is so greatly sought after. Similar to many evergreen trees, when pierced, the tree 'bleeds' a milky sap. The resin forms droplets known as pearls, which are dried in the sun to form hardened incense gum known itself as Frankincense.

For many millennia years, the hardened resin has been burned in temples throughout Asia, and the Catholic church continues to use it ceremonially. The smoke of burning Frankincense resin, as with other ritual incense, is thought to carry prayers to heaven. It is also said to deepen the breath and still the mind, making it useful for meditation and yogic practice. Some components of Frankincense stimulate the pineal gland, or 'third-eye', so this concept makes sense under modern scientific investigation. The incense may have health benefits as well, producing a highly antiseptic smoke, keeping churches and churchgoers free from disease.

Frankincense resin is thought to have a bounty of health properties - it was an ingredient in a rejuvenating face mask in ancient Egypt (it was also charred and used as the classic heavy eyeliner seen in much ancient Egyptian art), and at one time was "used to treat every conceivable ill to man". In Ayurvedic medicine it is known as salaiguggul, used for centuries to treat many conditions, including arthritis. Modern science has isolated the active compounds found to have anti-arthritic properties. Called boswellic acids, these components inhibit the inflammatory process, improve blood supply and prevent further cartilage reduction.

Today's naturopathic physicians continue the use of Frankincense essential oil for certain conditions. The oil is distilled directly from the collected tree resin. It is used for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, catarrh and asthma; for wrinkles, wounds and dry skin, and in cases of rheumatism, cystitis and leucorrhea. It may be utilized through any of the routes of aromatherapy administraion: inhalation, topical application, or ingestion (though this route should only be undertaken with the direct advice of a qualified practitioner!) Further, Frankincense oil is currently being investigated in unversity studies for anti-cancer effects. During a recent presentation before a regional meeting of the American Cancer Society in Roanoke, Va., Dr. John Robertson, director of the college's Center for Comparative Oncology, said he's found the oil has fairly selective anti-tumor activity and doesn't appear to disrupt normal cells. The oil has been noted specifically for effects skin tumors and breast cancer, and may be particularly useful as an adjunct therapy in such cases because of it's ease of application. Again, seek the advice of a qualified practitioner for details of usage in such cases.

It is important to note that the carbon dioxide extracted (CO2) variety of the essential oil is more likely to contain the same healthful compounds as the natural plant resin, as the steam distilled variety may not be able to extract all the important molecules. North America's leading medical aromatherapist has stated, "It could be that the (health-affecting) substances in question are too polar and too large a molecular size to appear in steam distillates - their presence would be more likely in CO2 extracts." The CO2 extract may still be a little more expensive than the steam distilled oil, though prices are coming down as the technology becomes more commonplace. Look for the essential oil labeled 'CO2 distilled' or 'extracted' specifically - otherwise it is likely to be the steam distilled variety.

The most immediate and pronounced effect of the essential oil can be on the emotional and mental state for many people.. Frankincense oil contains sesquiterpenes, which stimulate the limbic system, the hypothalamus, the pineal and the pituitary glands, and may increase human growth hormone production. This overall tonic action to the mind also seems to be directly affecting the immune system for some individuals, bringing additional strength and reserve along with peace of mind.

Frankincense essential oil can be used in a manner similar to burning of the incense in spiritual practice. Warming in a candle lamp or direct application to the temples and third eye will quiet the mind, deepen the breath, and promote meditative stillness. It is often blended with Sandalwood, Myrrh, Cedarwood and/or Juniper oil for such uses, as these all have similar grounding and elevating properties. For therapeutic uses, some naturopathic practitioners take small amounts of the essential oil orally, sometimes in addition to massaging into any diseased area. Of course, as with any illness, it is important to seek out qualified medical advice; if you choose to employ Frankincense oil, discuss this with your physician - it should be acceptable as an adjunct therapy in most cases. It is far better to employ the oil under the direction of a qualified practitioner rather than through haphazard application!

For simple incense use in the way that has been used for thousands of years, frankincense resin is widely available at reasonable costs. Most is wild-crafted; thankfully, the resource is abundant, as the trees easily survive harvesting of the pearls. The small chunks of resin can simply be lit by themselves in a dish or similar container, and will burn like any other incense, slowly releasing its aromatic smoke.

With the essential oil, a diffuser or warming lamp can be used to disperse the aroma throughout a space. The oil is also found in aromatherapy candles, where it is released from the heated oil beneath the burning wick. The aroma of the oil is subtle and complex; sit quietly and examine all the notes involved in the smell, taking the time to investigate your reaction to them individually and as the combined aroma. Try this with different diffusion methods; you may find you prefer one over the other - warming, cold-diffusion, or direct application.

The wonderful gift of the Frankincense tree is available in many ways, and has come highly recommended for many thousands of years. Try adding a little Frankincense to your life, and see what the mystery is all about!