DMSO & Frankincense Benefits: Ancient Aroma, Modern Calm
From sacred rituals to modern self-care, few botanicals carry the legacy—and mystique—of frankincense. With a scent that’s both grounding and timeless, this fragrant resin has soothed bodies, minds, and spirits for thousands of years. But what exactly is frankincense, and why has it remained so beloved?
Let’s take a closer look at this ancient ingredient, benefits and uses and why it’s still making waves in wellness today.
🌳 What Is Frankincense?
Frankincense is an aromatic resin harvested from the Boswellia tree, which grows in dry, mountainous regions of India, Africa, and the Middle East. When the bark is cut, it releases a milky sap that hardens into golden droplets known as “tears”—the raw form of frankincense.
For centuries, these fragrant tears have been burned as incense, distilled into essential oil, and used in spiritual ceremonies, perfumes, and traditional practices.
🏺 A Brief History
Frankincense has a history as rich as its scent. It was one of the most prized commodities in the ancient world, traded along the Silk Road and carried by camel caravans across deserts. In ancient Egypt, it was used in embalming and beauty rituals. In traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, it held a respected place for its aromatic and botanical qualities.
And yes—it’s the same frankincense mentioned in biblical texts, gifted alongside gold and myrrh. You could say it was wellness royalty long before the modern essential oil trend.
🌬️ A Scent That Grounds
Frankincense’s signature aroma is warm, resinous, and lightly spicy—often described as calming, centering, and almost meditative. It’s a favorite in aromatherapy for promoting a sense of clarity, stillness, and peace.
Whether used during quiet moments of reflection or simply as a way to elevate your everyday routine, frankincense has a way of bringing you back to center.
🌟 Frankincense Benefits & Why It’s Still Loved Today
Frankincense has stood the test of time—and with good reason. Far beyond its sacred scent and ancient symbolism, this aromatic gum resin is prized in natural wellness circles for its wide range of potential benefits.
Here’s why this therapeutic resin continues to earn a spot in modern routines:
🌿 Anti-Inflammatory Potential
Frankincense contains Boswellia acids, which are being studied for their role in supporting the body’s natural inflammatory response. Traditionally, it has been used to ease muscle and joint discomfort and promote everyday mobility.
🌬️ Supports Respiratory Wellness
Used for centuries as an incense and inhalant, frankincense has long been associated with clear breathing and respiratory support. Its calming aroma also makes it a favorite during meditation and quiet breathing practices.
🧘 Promotes Calm & Relaxation
When used in aromatherapy, the sacred scent of frankincense may help reduce stress and quiet the mind. Some studies even suggest it may help lower heart rate and blood pressure—making it a natural fit for winding down.
✨ Supports Skin & Oral Health
This fragrant gum is often found in natural skincare for its soothing, astringent qualities—especially in formulas targeting blemishes, scars, and signs of aging. It’s also been used in oral care traditions to freshen breath and support healthy gums.
🌿 Gut & Immune Support
While research is ongoing, frankincense has shown promise in supporting digestive comfort and immune response. In traditional wellness systems, it was often used to soothe the stomach and promote overall balance.
From ancient incense burners to modern essential oil blends, frankincense continues to bridge the gap between ritual and routine. Whether you know it as olibanum, balsam, or Boswellia, one thing remains clear: this natural wellness ally has more to offer than just a pleasant scent.
💡 Did You Know?
Frankincense trees only grow in a handful of places around the world—and harvesting the resin takes patience and care. A single tree must mature for several years before it can be tapped, and even then, the process is done slowly to ensure sustainability and tree health.
Talk about slow beauty.
✨ Looking Ahead
As interest in plant-based wellness continues to grow, frankincense stands out not just for its long legacy, but for how effortlessly it fits into today’s clean, intentional lifestyles. Whether you’re drawn to its scent, its story, or its simplicity, frankincense is more than a trend—it’s a tradition worth keeping.
🌀 Bring Frankincense Into Your Daily Routine
If you're as captivated by frankincense as we are, our new DMSO Frankincense Roll-On is a simple way to enjoy its warm, grounding aroma anytime you need a moment of calm. We've paired this treasured botanical with high-purity, low-odor DMSO in a smooth, mess-free roll-on—perfect for your bag, desk, or nightstand.
