Frankincense, a fragrant resin derived from trees in the Boswellia genus, has a long history in human culture. For millennia, this aromatic substance has been valued for its use in religious ceremonies, traditional medicine, and incense. The resin is collected from the bark, and its essential oil is prized for its complex, woody aroma. Given its widespread use, a common question arises: does this ancient botanical effectively repel mosquitoes?
Frankincense Components and Immediate Efficacy
Frankincense essential oil (FEO) contains a complex mixture of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that give it its distinct profile. The chemical composition is highly variable depending on the Boswellia species and geographic source. Major components often include monoterpenes like alpha-pinene, which can constitute a significant percentage of the oil.
Other aromatic compounds commonly present are limonene and alpha-thujene. These volatile molecules create the oil’s strong, characteristic fragrance. However, scientific consensus suggests that frankincense, when used alone, is generally a weak or non-repellent against adult mosquitoes compared to proven alternatives. Its immediate efficacy as a standalone, topical repellent is often minimal or short-lived.
Research Findings on Mosquito Repellency
Laboratory research on frankincense essential oil’s effect on mosquitoes has yielded mixed results, often focusing on insecticidal or larvicidal effects rather than adult repellency. One study demonstrated that frankincense oil was highly effective as a larvicide, inducing 100% mortality in Aedes aegypti larvae at a concentration of 50 parts per million (ppm). Other research has also noted significant insecticidal activity against the larvae of Culex quinquefasciatus. This suggests that the oil’s components can be lethal to mosquitoes in their aquatic life stage under controlled laboratory conditions.
However, the efficacy data for frankincense as a direct, topical repellent against adult, biting mosquitoes remains limited and less robust than for other essential oils. Standardized testing, such as “arm-in-cage” assays, typically measures a product’s Complete Protection Time (CPT) against species like Aedes or Anopheles mosquitoes. Unlike oils derived from plants such as citronella or lemon eucalyptus, there is a distinct lack of widely published data showing high CPT values for frankincense oil when applied to the skin.
This absence of strong, independent topical efficacy data suggests frankincense is not a preferred choice for reliable personal protection. The most effective natural essential oils, such as clove bud or patchouli, show measurable protection times against common mosquito vectors. Frankincense is sometimes included in commercial repellent formulations, but it is often combined with significantly more potent synthetic agents like dimefluthrin. This indicates it serves more as a fragrance or a minor component than the primary active repellent.
Safe Topical Use and Application Methods
For those who still wish to use frankincense essential oil on their skin, it is important to follow strict safety protocols. Frankincense oil must always be diluted with a carrier oil before topical application to prevent skin irritation or sensitization. Using the oil “neat,” or undiluted, can cause adverse reactions, especially on sensitive skin.
Safe dilution rates for adults typically range between 1% and 3% for general body use. A 2% dilution involves mixing about 12 drops of frankincense oil into one fluid ounce (30 ml) of a carrier oil such as fractionated coconut, jojoba, or sweet almond oil. Before applying the diluted mixture to a large area, a patch test should be performed to check for any allergic reaction or sensitivity.
Diffusion is another popular application method, where the oil is dispersed into the air using an electronic diffuser. While diffusing frankincense can create a pleasant indoor environment and may offer some localized, temporary deterrence, this method is largely ineffective for providing personal protection outdoors. The volatile compounds dissipate quickly in open-air settings, offering minimal defense against biting insects.