Frankincense and Myrrh essential oils are derived from the resins of the Boswellia and Commiphora trees, native to regions in Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Valued for over 5,000 years, these oils were used in ancient Egyptian rituals, traditional Chinese medicine, and religious ceremonies. Frankincense (Boswellia sacra or serrata) offers a warm, woody aroma, while Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) carries a deeper, earthy, and slightly spicy scent. This article focuses on incorporating these aromatics into modern daily life through safe and practical methods.
Safe Preparation and Dilution Guidelines
Essential oils are highly concentrated and must be diluted before topical application to prevent skin irritation. For adults, a general dilution is 2–3% concentration (12 to 18 drops per ounce of carrier oil) for most body applications. For sensitive skin, children, or the elderly, a lower 1% dilution (about 6 drops per ounce) is recommended.
Suitable carrier oils include Jojoba, Fractionated Coconut, or Sweet Almond oil, which help disperse the oils and aid absorption. Always perform a patch test on a small area of skin, like the inner forearm, and wait 12 hours to check for irritation before applying a new blend widely. Individuals who are pregnant, taking specific medications, or dealing with serious health conditions should consult a healthcare professional before using essential oils.
Aromatic Applications for Relaxation and Focus
The grounding, resinous aromas of Frankincense and Myrrh create a calming and focused atmosphere through inhalation. Using an electric diffuser is the most common method, requiring only a few drops to fill a room. Diffusing these oils can help settle nervous energy, reduce stress, and promote tranquility, which is beneficial before bed or during stressful periods.
To promote a meditative state or enhance focus, the oils can be diffused, or a drop of a pre-diluted blend can be applied to pulse points. Direct inhalation from the bottle or placing a drop on a tissue provides a quick grounding effect when immediate relief is needed. Frankincense is known to support the respiratory system, promoting deeper and more relaxed breathing.
Topical Applications for Skin and Targeted Relief
Frankincense and Myrrh offer beneficial effects on the skin, primarily due to their anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Frankincense is utilized in anti-aging routines, as it may help improve skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines. Myrrh is incorporated to soothe irritated skin, promote the healing of blemishes, and provide intense moisturization for dry skin.
When combined and properly diluted, the oils may enhance the skin’s ability to absorb active compounds, possibly related to increased localized blood flow. For targeted physical comfort, a diluted blend massaged into muscles and joints can help alleviate stiffness and reduce inflammation. Applying a diluted blend to the temples or the back of the neck can also offer a soothing effect for tension headaches.
Strategic Blending and Synergistic Pairing
Frankincense and Myrrh create synergy when used together, resulting in a combined effect that is often more potent than when used individually. This action is noted for enhanced anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects, making the combination a powerful base for therapeutic blends. For moisturizing skin treatment, the oils blend seamlessly into a rich carrier oil like Jojoba.
Frankincense and Myrrh pair well with other essential oils that share similar aromatic or therapeutic notes.
- For a calming sleep blend, they combine effectively with Lavender.
- A focus blend can be created by adding stimulating Peppermint.
- Earthy scents like Cedarwood or Sandalwood enhance the grounding quality of the resins.
- Bright citrus oils such as Orange or Bergamot can lighten the deep aroma for a more uplifting diffusive experience.