Incense is usually famous for being one of the gifts offered by the Magi at the birth of Jesus Christ. However, you probably don't know that even today it can be used in various ways. The delicate fragrance of this resin is good for the skin, relieves anxiety and stress and can freshen the air in a room that has been closed for a long time. However, its natural benefits don't stop there - you may be surprised at all the wonderful uses frankincense essential oil lends itself to.
Steps
Part 1 of 3: Relieve Anxiety and Stress
Step 1. Let yourself be enveloped by the scent and relax
Frankincense has long been used in some aromatherapy practices that use natural fragrances to counteract various types of ailments. When you feel depressed or dejected, dab some frankincense oil on your wrists or pour it into an essence burner. The calming effects of its spicy, dry and earthy aroma will instantly make you feel better.
- Fill the air with the scent of incense while you work, study or meditate.
- Even if you don't believe in holistic treatments, keep in mind that frankincense essential oil produces a pleasant smell.
Step 2. Add it when you take a bath
Pour a few drops into the bathtub when the water is hot and you are breathing in the steam. Once immersed, you will feel the muscle tension decrease and all worries disappear. Frankincense is also a great natural moisturizer, so your skin will feel softer and smoother even after you dry out.
- If you prefer a hot shower, try soaking a washcloth or sponge in frankincense oil before lathering yourself.
- By using the right products when you wash, you'll save yourself the hassle of applying moisturizer once you're dry.
Step 3. Use it to fall asleep
Forget about sleeping pills and drugs that are addictive and leave you stunned. A less drastic alternative is to pour a few drops of frankincense oil into a vaporizer and place it on your nightstand when you want to close your eyes. You will be able to have a good restful sleep, because its pleasant fragrance will relax you and gently dispel the agitation.
The floral and soothing notes of incense will allow you to fall asleep faster and sleep longer
Step 4. Try it together with a massage
Combine frankincense oil with a few drops of mint, sage or juniper essence the next time you have a couple or single massage. Not only does it glide over the skin like velvet, it can actually relax muscles and aid in the healing of possibly deeply damaged tissue. After a few massages you will no longer need to make an appointment at a spa or beauty center.
- Rub frankincense oil on sore muscles and joints instead of taking pain relievers.
- When you start feeling stressed, pour a drop of oil on your temples or palms and breathe slowly and deeply.
Part 2 of 3: Enhancing Health with Incense
Step 1. Introduce it to your skin care
In addition to having excellent moisturizing properties, frankincense contains elements that can plump and compact skin that is less young, more stressed or exposed to more extreme environmental conditions. Mix one part frankincense oil with two parts baby oil or shea butter and rub the mixture into dark circles or rough, chapped hands to look younger.
- There is evidence that frankincense and other essential oils can help fight wrinkles and other signs of aging.
- Use a drop of frankincense oil to relieve skin dryness, itching, or irritation.
Step 2. Include it in your oral hygiene
Create a toothpaste that does not contain fillers by mixing frankincense essential oil, 1 teaspoon of baking soda and 60ml water to form a thick paste or use a solution of 2-3 drops frankincense oil and mint diluted in hot water as a chemical-free mouthwash. Frankincense has natural antiseptic properties, so it eliminates germs that accumulate in the mouth and keeps teeth and gums in excellent health.
- Rinse with frankincense oil and warm water or hydrogen peroxide if your gums are bleeding or you have a cut in your mouth.
- Regular use can also help eliminate bad breath.
Step 3. Treat a cold
When you have a cold, don't spend money on expensive medicines, but use frankincense to relieve the worst flu symptoms. It has been shown to reduce swelling, so it is useful for relieving pain caused by various types of discomfort. If you use it topically or ingest it in small amounts (no more than a few drops at a time, diluted with another liquid), it can also stimulate your immune system and prevent you from getting sick again.
- Mix a few drops of frankincense oil in a large container filled with warm water, place a towel on your head and inhale deeply to decongest and relieve lung inflammation.
- You can also soak a washcloth in a solution of warm water and frankincense oil and place it on your eyes and nose to relieve the discomfort caused by sinusitis.
Step 4. Treat wounds
The antimicrobial action of frankincense also makes it perfect as a topical remedy. Dabbing the oil on less severe cuts or wounds will eliminate bacteria and prevent infections from developing, without compromising the healing process. Furthermore, as it dries, it will nourish the skin allowing it to form less noticeable scabs and scars.
- By applying frankincense oil on scars, stretch marks or acne, over time you will be able to alleviate this kind of blemish.
- Do not use frankincense oil on open wounds. In the event of a serious injury, consult your doctor immediately.
Step 5. Relieves stomach pain
If you happen to have stomach pain, flatulence, bloating or intestinal cramps, fear not: one or two drops of essential oil in a few milliliters of water or in an herbal tea will help you relieve gastrointestinal disorders as if it were an antidiarrheal drug. Drink the mixture and you will feel your discomfort disappear within a few minutes.
- To make it easier to swallow, try adding a tablespoon of honey.
- Make sure the incense is pure and free from fragrances or chemical additives before ingesting it.
Part 3 of 3: Using Incense at Home
Step 1. Refresh the environment
Pour the frankincense oil into an essence burner, vaporizer or handmade candles to spread its pleasant musky scent throughout your home. The elements from which it is composed have a calming and relaxing action and easily cover bad smells produced by animals, waste, mold or piles of dirty laundry.
- Combine 5-6 drops of frankincense oil with 700ml of distilled water and 14g of baking soda in a spray bottle. You can use this natural blend like you use a regular air freshener.
- Try filling electric perfume diffusers with frankincense oil and plugging them into the wall sockets at home.
Step 2. Prepare your cleaning detergent
Blend 10 drops of frankincense oil with 470ml of hot water, 240ml of white vinegar, and 85g of baking soda to make an all-purpose household cleaning solution. Pour it into a spray bottle and use it for cleaning all environments, from the bathroom to the kitchen surfaces when they have come in contact with raw chicken.
- Frankincense is a natural astringent, so it can remove dirt, oil, and grease from almost any surface.
- Using a blend made with olive oil, lemon juice and frankincense oil on furniture and counter tops will keep them shiny and fragrant.
Step 3. Pour incense into liquid hand soap and other products
Buy a fragrance-free hand cleanser, shampoo, or face cream and add some frankincense oil. You will be able to cleanse, soothe and restore the hydration of the skin and scalp, paying a third of what you would normally spend buying particular products. When used correctly, frankincense oil has the combined effectiveness of a cleanser, lotion and perfume.
- It is good for cleaning pores and hydrating cuticles.
- Create your own hand soap for use in the bathroom and kitchen by mixing ordinary liquid castile soap, distilled water and a blend of essential oils including frankincense, mint and lavender.
Advice
- There are no known harmful side effects produced by frankincense oil, so it can be used in almost any circumstance (in moderation).
- Buy frankincense oil and other essential oils at a reputable store. Stay away from brands that, to earn easy money, promote the sale of mysterious concoctions by riding the fashion of holistic and New Age practices.
- Find a good mood by letting yourself be intoxicated by the sweet and intense scent of incense. It will help you relax your mind.
- In addition to hand soap, frankincense oil can be added in other products: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and face cream.
Warnings
- Essential oils such as frankincense produce significant health benefits, but should never be used as a substitute for mainstream medicine. If you are sick, injured, or have a health problem that has not yet been diagnosed, see your doctor.
- If you want to make an invigorating drink, use frankincense oil, taking care to respect the recommended amount. Although in most cases essential oils pose no risk once ingested, they can be toxic and hurtful if taken in excessive doses.
