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Herbal Chronicles: Frankincense

Herbal Chronicles: Frankincense

Posted by Maranda Johnson on 13th Mar 2024

Frankincense for Skincare: A Timeless Elixir

For millennia, frankincense has captivated humanity. Its warm, balsamic aroma has graced religious ceremonies, soothed anxieties, and beautified skin. Come with us as we delve into the world of this precious resin, exploring its history, skin benefits of various grades, and the crucial conversation of sustainability.

Boswellia Tree

A Walk Through History Frankincense, derived from the Boswellia tree, boasts a rich past. Evidence suggests its use dates back to 3,000 BC in ancient Egypt, where it was revered for its medicinal and spiritual properties. Egyptians employed frankincense in embalming rituals, believing it preserved the soul's journey to the afterlife. The resin also found favor in Greece and Rome, becoming a prized commodity traded along the Silk Road.

Moon Rabbit

Folklore: The Moon Rabbit and the Lost City of Ubar
Deep within the vast expanse of the Arabian desert, legend speaks of a lost city – Ubar, gleaming with riches and knowledge. Many a fortune seeker ventured into the unforgiving sand dunes, but none returned. But there was one creature who knew the desert's secrets - a wise, white Moon Rabbit.
One moonlit night, a young woman named Zahara, desperate to find a cure for her ailing father, sought out the Moon Rabbit. The rabbit, known for its mystical connection to the moon and plants, listened patiently to Zahara's plea. He revealed that the cure lay in the frankincense trees guarded by mythical sand spirits deep within the desert.
Undeterred by the danger, Zahara set out, guided by the Moon Rabbit's cryptic clues. He had instructed her to follow the constellations of the Hunter and the Hare, and to offer frankincense (gifted by the rabbit) to appease the sand spirits.
The journey was arduous, but Zahara persevered, guided by the stars and the calming scent of the frankincense. Finally, she reached a hidden oasis, where majestic Boswellia trees stood tall. As Zahara approached, a swirling sandstorm materialized before her, transforming into fearsome sand spirits. Zahara, remembering the Moon Rabbit's advice, lit the frankincense, and its soothing aroma filled the air.
The sand spirits calmed, recognizing the sacred resin. They allowed Zahara to gather the specific frankincense needed for the cure, impressed by her courage and respect for the desert. With the precious resin, Zahara rushed back, her father recovering with its potent healing properties.

News of Zahara's bravery and the Moon Rabbit's guidance spread far and wide. While the lost city of Ubar remained a mystery, the tale of the Moon Rabbit and the power of frankincense became a cherished legend, a testament to the desert's hidden wonders and the respect needed to navigate its secrets.

Frankicense Resin

A Multifaceted Gem: Unveiling the Varieties Frankincense isn't monolithic.
There are several key varieties, each boasting unique characteristics and benefits for the skin:

  • Boswellia Sacra (Omani Frankincense): Considered the "king" of frankincense, Omani frankincense offers a potent aroma with citrusy undertones. It's prized for its skin-regenerative properties, promoting elasticity and reducing the appearance of wrinkles.
  • Boswellia Carteri (Green Frankincense): Hailing from Somalia and Ethiopia, Green Frankincense possesses a fresh, slightly camphoraceous scent. It's known for its anti-inflammatory properties, helping soothe blemishes and promote a more even skin tone.
  • Boswellia Serrata (Indian Frankincense): This variety, native to India, has a sweeter, more woodsy aroma. It's valued for its calming and grounding properties, making it ideal for those with sensitive skin.

What Makes Frankincense Special
Let’s explore what makes it a powerful ally for healing and maintaining youthful skin.

  • Boswellic Acid: The Skin Healer. Boswellic acid, found in frankincense, plays a pivotal role. It gives frankincense oil its anti-inflammatory and skin-healing action. Impact: When applied topically, boswellic acid helps soothe inflammation, repair damaged skin, and promote overall skin health
  • Rejuvenation for Mature Skin: Frankincense oil has a rejuvenating effect, especially on mature skin. Here’s how:
    • Minimizes Wrinkles and Fine Lines: By stimulating collagen production, frankincense reduces the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines.
  • Scar Reduction: It also helps fade scars and blemishes, promoting a smoother complexion.
  • Toning and Tightening: The astringent quality of frankincense oil has an overall toning effect on the skin.
  • Antiseptic Properties: Frankincense acts as an antiseptic. When diluted, it can help heal wounds and skin ulcers.
  • Aromatherapeutic Benefits: Frankincense essential oil is popular in aromatherapy.
    • Relieves Stresa: It calms and uplifts the spirit, aids meditation, and increases energy and focus.
    • Enhances Well-Being: The aroma promotes contentment and positivity.
  • Potential Cancer-Fighting Properties: Preliminary studies suggest that compounds found in frankincense may play a role in fighting various types of cancer, including skin cancer.

In summary, frankincense’s magic lies in its ancient lineage, its skin-healing properties, and its ability to combat signs of aging. Incorporating it into your skincare routine can help you maintain a radiant and youthful complexion

Frankincense Resin

The Sustainable Challenge: Protecting a Legacy
The future of frankincense is not without its challenges. Unsustainable harvesting practices, cattle grazing on saplings, uncontrolled fires, and overtapping—cutting a tree too many times threaten the Boswellia trees. The Good Stuff Botanicals is committed to sourcing our frankincense ethically and sustainably. We partner with responsible suppliers who prioritize tree health and ensure regeneration for future generations. 

Check Out The Good Stuff Products Crafted With Frankincense

MeYe Turn - Eye Serum

MeYe Turn: Revitalizing eye serum
"I love this product, it really softens my skin, tightens the area around my eye and it does work well to diminish the lines. Wonderful product!" Heidi J

"Feels great, very easy to apply and soft around the eyes. A little goes a long way. Been using for about a week before bed and starting to see some results." - Erica 

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face oil
Looking Sharp: Face Oil

"I’m 78…people usually guess 10 years younger. Only thing I use on my face…for years." - Patricia

"Best performing clean serum I've used. It smooths my fine lines, evens out my skin tone and minimizes my pores, all without harsh chemicals. I use it with MeYeTurn eye cream and the lovely seasonal face oils, all of which absorb quickly into my skin without any residue. I feel like I've finally found my perfect skincare routine."

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Aftershave

'Nuff Scruff: Aftershave

"My husband loves this stuff!!! He says he never gets bumps or pimple after spraying that s after he shaved. He also just sprays it on his face sometimes he loves it that much." - Marquise

"Bought this for my boyfriend, but I use it as a toner because I am so in love with this smell and the ingredients!"

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Experience the Magic of Frankincense

Frankincense is more than just a beautiful fragrance. It's a bridge to the past, a treasure for the skin, and a reminder of our interconnectedness with nature. We invite you to explore our range of frankincense products, mindfully sourced and formulated to bring the essence of this "liquid gold" into your life.

Remember: Always dilute essential oils like frankincense with a carrier oil before topical application. Consult a healthcare professional if pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any medical conditions.

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