Frankincense is the hardened resin from the Boswellia species of trees, harvested by making incisions in the bark, allowing the milky sap to exude and harden into tear-shaped pieces. Historically, frankincense was primarily used in religious ceremonies, perfumes, and as incense. Today, a growing interest exists in consuming the resin for perceived health benefits, prompting questions about its edibility and safety.
Understanding Frankincense Resin
Certain grades of frankincense resin are considered edible, though this distinction is crucial for safe consumption. The resin is a complex mixture containing volatile essential oils, water-soluble gums, and alcohol-soluble triterpenoid resins. When considering ingestion, the only part consumed is the resin itself, which must be clean, pure, and free from debris.
The quality of the resin is typically categorized by the tree species, with Boswellia sacra from Oman often regarded as the finest. High-quality grades, such as Royal Green Hojari, are specifically designated as edible or medicinal grade due to their purity. The therapeutic interest in consuming the resin centers on boswellic acids, which are found in the acidic resin portion. These compounds are believed to contribute to the resin’s properties.
Traditional Methods of Consumption
Frankincense resin has been consumed for centuries in various cultures, including traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic practices. The most direct method involves chewing the resin tears, similar to chewing gum. As the resin is chewed, the water-soluble components slowly dissolve, releasing a distinct citrusy and pine flavor. The insoluble gum portion remains and is typically discarded after the flavor has been extracted.
Another common application is preparing a water infusion, often called frankincense water or tea. This is made by steeping small pieces of edible-grade resin in water, either hot or cold, which causes the water to turn a slightly cloudy, milky color. For a hot infusion, the resin is steeped for five to fifteen minutes, while a cold infusion may steep for eight to twelve hours. Traditionally, this infusion is valued as a soothing, caffeine-free alternative.
The traditional motivation for ingesting the resin relates to its historical use as a digestive aid and for its purported anti-inflammatory effects. In Ayurvedic medicine, Indian frankincense (Boswellia serrata) has been used for conditions such as arthritis. The boswellic acids are thought to inhibit the synthesis of inflammatory enzymes, which may help reduce pain and swelling.
Safety Considerations and Sourcing
The decision to consume frankincense requires careful consideration of purity, form, and potential health interactions. A primary safety concern is the difference between the raw resin and the highly concentrated essential oil derived from it. Frankincense essential oils are generally not safe for internal consumption unless specifically labeled as food-grade. Undiluted essential oils are highly concentrated and can irritate the gastrointestinal tract.
Even with pure, food-grade resin, potential side effects can occur, particularly when consumed in excess. Reported adverse effects have included digestive issues like stomach discomfort, nausea, diarrhea, and acid reflux. Starting with minimal doses and monitoring the body’s reaction is a prudent approach to internal use.
Frankincense may also interact with certain medications, which necessitates consulting a healthcare provider before beginning consumption. Specific concern exists regarding its potential to interact with blood thinners, such as warfarin, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Additionally, individuals with bleeding disorders or hormone-sensitive conditions should exercise caution. Consumers must seek out clearly labeled, certified food-grade Boswellia resin from reputable suppliers to ensure the product is clean and unadulterated.