Frankincense was one of the gifts that the Magi (three wise men) gave to Jesus Christ during his birth in order to honor and give respect to His royalty. However, some claimed that the wise men gave frankincense not just for its fragrance, but also for its medicinal and healing properties.
What is Frankincense Oil?
Frankincense oil is the essence distilled from the resin of Olibanum trees found in India, Somalia, and Ethiopia. There’s a long history of the medicinal properties of Frankincense. Over the years, it has been used for aromatherapy, anxiety, fighting infections, boosting immunity, reducing scars and acne, spiritual awareness, and as an anti-inflammatory treatment. Aside from these, some researchers are also exploring the possibilities of using frankincense oil as an alternative cancer treatment.
Aside from its medicinal properties, frankincense is also used for beauty products. In the past, it was used to produce Kohl eyeliner for Egyptian women.
Frankincense Oil and Cancer
A study done by the University of Oklahoma researchers indicated that frankincense oil seems able to distinguish between normal bladder cells from cancerous ones.
Meanwhile, researchers from the University of Leicester found that a unique compound in frankincense oil known as acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA) suggests that it can be a safe and effective remedy for ovarian cancer.
While there are claims and findings about what frankincense oil can possibly do in battling cancer, most of these studies are done in-vitro. There’s still no clinical trials to validate claims that frankincense can actually cure cancer.
Benefits of Frankincense Oil
While there’s still no evidence that frankincense can cure cancer, it can be used to help you relax and manage pain during cancer medication and treatment. When used in aromatherapy, frankincense oil helps alleviate anxiety, relieve stress, gives a feeling of mental peace and allows you to relax.
Aside from that, frankincense oil has other health benefits. It can help boost the immune system and helps the body absorb nutrients better. Frankincense is also known for its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and expectorant properties. It can help relieve arthritis, respiratory conditions, oral problems and infections, and digestive problems.
Before Using Frankincense Oil as an Alternative Treatment to Cancer
If you’re interested in using frankincense oil for alternative cancer treatment, it’s best to consult your doctor first. While there are quite a number of information on its cancer-healing abilities, it’s important to note that there are still no clinical studies supporting that claim.
Discuss with your doctor if using frankincense oil is suitable for your condition and up to what extent. There’s nothing wrong with exploring different ways to battle cancer, but you need to make sure that you’re not inflicting more harm on yourself in the process.
