Peripheral neuropathy, a condition affecting millions, involves damage to nerves outside the brain and spinal cord. Many individuals coping with the persistent discomfort associated with this nerve damage look toward traditional remedies for relief. Among the most historically recognized natural substances are Frankincense (Boswellia serrata) and Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha), both ancient resins used in various healing traditions. The growing interest in these compounds is driven by their documented anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects. This exploration examines the scientific foundation for why these resins are considered potential supportive agents in managing nerve-related discomfort.
What Neuropathy Is
Neuropathy refers to damage to the peripheral nervous system, which transmits information between the central nervous system and the rest of the body. This damage disrupts the communication pathways, leading to a variety of symptoms. The condition often begins in the longest nerves, typically affecting the feet and hands first, before potentially spreading up the limbs.
Common causes include systemic conditions like diabetes, which can lead to nerve injury over time, as well as chemotherapy, traumatic injury, and certain infections. Symptoms frequently include a gradual onset of numbness, tingling, and muscle weakness. A hallmark of the condition is pain often described as sharp, throbbing, burning, or shooting. This chronic pain and loss of sensation can severely impact coordination and overall quality of life.
Mechanisms of Inflammation Reduction
Frankincense and Myrrh have long been valued for their ability to temper the body’s inflammatory responses, a mechanism that may indirectly benefit nerve health. Frankincense resin contains a group of active compounds known as boswellic acids, particularly acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA). These triterpenoids are notable for their ability to specifically inhibit the enzyme 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX).
The 5-LOX enzyme is responsible for the synthesis of pro-inflammatory molecules called leukotrienes, which are potent mediators of inflammation. By blocking this enzyme, boswellic acids suppress the formation of these inflammatory compounds. This action provides a targeted anti-inflammatory effect distinct from common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).
Myrrh’s anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties are primarily attributed to its content of furanosesquiterpenes, which include compounds like curzerene and furanoeudesma-1,3-diene. These compounds act through different molecular pathways than Frankincense. The active components in Myrrh can modulate inflammatory signaling cascades, such as the MAPK and NF-κB pathways, which regulate the expression of various pro-inflammatory cytokines. This dual-action approach, combining the distinct mechanisms of both resins, is often why they are traditionally used together.
Direct Evidence in Nerve Pain and Regeneration
Scientific investigation has focused on whether the anti-inflammatory properties of these resins translate into direct neuroprotective effects and support for nerve repair. Pre-clinical studies using animal models of peripheral nerve injury have shown promising results for Frankincense extract. In rat models with sciatic nerve crush injuries, Frankincense extract improved functional recovery, which was measured by the sciatic functional index.
The therapeutic effect appears to involve the promotion of cellular processes necessary for nerve recovery. Specifically, Frankincense extract was found to stimulate the proliferation of Schwann cells, which are the primary glial cells in the peripheral nervous system responsible for producing the myelin sheath and facilitating nerve regeneration. Furthermore, the extract increased the expression of the growth-associated protein GAP-43, a marker strongly linked to active nerve sprouting and repair.
Research focusing on the combination of Frankincense and Myrrh has explored their direct effect on neuropathic pain signaling. A combined water extract of the two resins was shown in a mouse model to alleviate both mechanical allodynia and thermal hypersensitivity, which are defining symptoms of neuropathic pain. This analgesic effect was linked to the modulation of the Transient Receptor Potential Vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) channel, a protein receptor on nerve endings involved in the transmission of heat and pain signals.
However, the current body of evidence is limited to these pre-clinical laboratory and animal studies. While the results suggest a potential for both nerve pain relief and support for nerve regeneration, the safety and efficacy of these resins for human neuropathy patients have not been established through large-scale clinical trials. The specific mechanisms seen in animal models need further validation in human subjects before Frankincense or Myrrh can be considered a standard neuropathy treatment.
Considerations for Safe Topical and Internal Use
Individuals considering the use of Frankincense or Myrrh must be aware of potential safety concerns. Both resins are commonly available as essential oils for topical use, which should always be diluted in a carrier oil to prevent skin irritation or allergic reactions. Oral supplementation is available through concentrated extracts and capsules.
Oral use requires caution due to potential interactions with prescription medications. Frankincense, through its components, may interact with and increase the activity of blood-thinning medications like warfarin. Myrrh is also known to reduce the effectiveness of warfarin and other coumarin derivatives.
Myrrh may affect blood glucose levels, meaning individuals with diabetes taking medication should monitor their levels closely. Both Frankincense and Myrrh should be avoided during pregnancy and lactation, as Myrrh can stimulate uterine activity. Consulting with a healthcare provider is prudent before incorporating these traditional resins into a regimen.