Frankincense Essential Oil: A Tool for Boosting Your Immune System
Frankincense Essential Oil: A Tool for Boosting Your Immune System
Frankincense essential oil has been used for centuries for its medicinal benefits. The oil is extracted from the resin of the Boswellia tree and has been widely used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. One of the most celebrated benefits of frankincense essential oil is its ability to boost the immune system. In this article, we will explore the science behind how frankincense essential oil can boost your immune system.
What is frankincense essential oil?
Frankincense essential oil is made by extracting the resin from the Boswellia tree. The tree is native to the Middle East and Africa and can grow up to 8 meters tall. Frankincense has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine due to its various health benefits. The resin is traditionally burned as incense, and the essential oil is extracted by steam distillation.
What are the benefits of frankincense essential oil?
Frankincense essential oil has a wide range of benefits. It is known to have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, astringent, and analgesic properties. Due to its antibacterial and antiviral properties, it has been traditionally used to treat coughs, colds, and other respiratory infections. Frankincense essential oil also promotes healthy skin, is a natural stress reliever, and helps in digestion.
How does frankincense boost the immune system?
Frankincense essential oil has shown promising results in boosting the immune system. The immune system is responsible for defending the body against infections, diseases, and other foreign invaders. Frankincense essential oil has been shown to stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are responsible for fighting off infections and other diseases.
In a study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine, frankincense essential oil was shown to enhance the immune response by increasing the production of cytokines. Cytokines are proteins that play an important role in immune response regulation. They help regulate the communication between cells in the immune system and are responsible for the recruitment of immune cells to the site of an infection.
Another study published in the International Journal of Molecular Medicine found that frankincense essential oil has potent antiviral effects. The researchers found that the oil is effective in reducing the replication of the herpes simplex virus (HSV-1) and other viruses.
How to use frankincense essential oil for boosting the immune system?
Frankincense essential oil is highly concentrated, and it is important to dilute it before use. It can be used topically, aromatically, or internally to boost the immune system.
Topical use:
To use frankincense essential oil topically, dilute a few drops of the oil with a carrier oil, such as coconut or jojoba oil. Apply the mixture to the bottom of your feet or your chest area. You can also apply it to the lymph nodes, which are responsible for filtering out harmful bacteria and viruses.
Aromatic use:
Adding a few drops of frankincense essential oil to a diffuser or vaporizer can help purify the air and boost your immune system. The oil can also be added to your bathwater for a relaxing and therapeutic bath.
Internal use:
Frankincense essential oil can be taken internally by adding a few drops to a glass of water or a cup of tea. It is important to use a high-quality essential oil that is safe for ingestion.
Precautions:
Frankincense essential oil is generally safe for use, but it is important to exercise caution when using it. The oil should not be applied directly to the skin, as it can cause irritation. It is important to dilute the oil before use, and it should not be ingested without the guidance of a healthcare professional. Additionally, pregnant or nursing women and children should consult with their physician before using frankincense essential oil.
In conclusion, frankincense essential oil is an excellent tool for boosting your immune system. Its ability to stimulate the production of white blood cells and cytokines can help defend the body against infections and diseases. With its numerous health benefits and use in traditional medicine for centuries, adding frankincense essential oil to your healthcare regimen can be a great way to stay healthy and strong.