Frankincense has been used for centuries by people for its aromatherapy and its natural beauty benefits.  The word Frankincense originates from the French word “Franc,” meaning pure or sacred, and the Latin word “incense,” meaning smoke.  Egyptian Pharaohs have been known to use this legendary oil in skincare and beauty rituals.  But why was this aromatic substance valued as equal to–or even above–the value of gold in ancient times?

This powerful remedy comes from the Boswellia tree native to the southern Arabian peninsula, northeast Africa, and parts of India (this is why the three wise men come from the far east brining frankincense with them).  Long prized for its powerfully spicy, woodsy aroma when burned or extracted, raw frankincense is still harvested much as it was thousands of years ago.

Frankincense’s essential oil is made by steam distilling the resin, or “tears” of the tree. The process creates a very potent and earthy smelling oil that is typically relatively pricey. This essential oil can be used aromatically and topically for its earthy balsam fragrance. The perfume industry uses this essential oil as well in various fragrances and blends.   Tsi-La Organics knows that the essential oil of Frankincense has many benefits including an excellent perfume fragrance.  There are both physical and 6th chakra spiritual healing benefits:

• Reduces skin discoloration and imperfections: The astringent properties of Frankincense make it an excellent choice for topical uses. Anti-aging products use the oil for the skin benefits. It also may help speed healing of minor wounds and insect bites.
• Promotes feelings of wellness and relaxation: Though we don’t completely understand why this oil seems to promote relaxation and sleep. The effect may be due to the aromatherapy benefits. This is especially relevant with the rising number of disorders related to stress and sleep.
• Balances hormones: Frankincense is also credited with helping balance hormones and improve memory. I wasn’t able to find any studies that back up this claim, but it is also important to realize that studies on essential oils are expensive and hard to fund.
• Studies show that inhalation of Frankincense can build levels of oxygen in the brain by up to 28 percent.  This increase of oxygen to the brain may prompt an increased level activity in the hypothalamus and limbic frameworks of the mind, which can have sensational impacts on emotions as well as on learning, attitude, and numerous physical procedures of the body, for example, hormone balance, immune function, and energy levels.

• Aligning chakras: Aligns the solar plexus chakra with the third eye to bring illumination and understanding of intellectual matters to a more enlightened awareness.
• Brings connection: Allows for connection to the Godhead, bringing in a higher frequency of integration throughout the chakra system.
• Balances opposites: Opens both hemispheres of the brain function in synchrony, bringing creativity and reason together.

Ts-La’s Kesu uses Frankincense to calm the body and help open the mind in addition to having an enticing allure.  There are a dark, provocative fragrance blends elegant notes of warm amber and precious rare woods of frankincense.