Other sources mention frankincense as a symbol of holiness and righteousness, as well as Christ’s role as the high priest. It was used as one of the ingredients for a holy incense, the amounts of which were given by God to Moses in Exodus 30:34.
“… allowing some substances to cross it while blocking others.
Essential oils are known to be very small molecules and, as lipid acids (not actually oils) are fat-soluble. I would personally rather have the antidepressant properties of frankincense essential oil pass through my blood-brain barrier than pharmaceutical antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications. I would also rather have the positive effects of frankincense on my limbic system, including the pleasure center of my brain, rather than activated by the chemical addiction potential of alcohol and cocaine.
Other properties of frankincense essential oil are emotional balance during grief, stress and trauma. Like myrrh, frankincense is anti-inflammatory and antiseptic. Frankincense is also anti-spasmodic and, with its sedative properties, can further help by tranquilizing activity of the overactive body part. This might be the reason it has been helpful for those with autistic tendencies.
Besides the blood-brain barrier, frankincense essential oil has benefits for the cardio-respiratory system, including asthma and the immune system, as well as skin benefits including help to decrease signs of aging.
Frankincense shares myrrh’s interesting parallel as to how it is obtained. The Boswellia tree is actually wounded in order to obtain the frankincense. The bark is cut, which yields a tear-shaped resin. Again, as myrrh’s source, is the frankincense source trying to heal itself with its own tears?
Sharing another beneficial property with myrrh, frankincense promotes wound healing, yet, unlike myrrh, goes a step further to minimize scars. Frankincense is often layered with lavender essential oil for maximum scar-reducing benefits.