Frankincense is a resin that comes from the Boswellia tree, which grows in dry and mountainous regions of India, Africa, and the Middle East. It has a woody and spicy aroma that can be employed to aromatherapy, skin care, or dietary supplements. Frankincense has been applied to centuries in traditional medicine systems such as Ayurveda and Chinese medicine for various health conditions.
But what are the scientific evidence behind the health benefits of frankincense? In this article, we will explore five potential benefits of frankincense and some myths that have to be debunked.
1. May reduce arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that causes inflammation and pain in the joints, affecting millions of people worldwide. One of the compounds found in frankincense, called boswellic acid, has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce joint swelling and stiffness caused by arthritis.
In one study, participants with osteoarthritis (a type of arthritis that affects the cartilage) were given 1 gram of frankincense extract per day for eight weeks. They reported significant improvements in their pain, physical function, and quality of life compared to those who received a place in both.
Another study found that applying a gel containing 30% frankincense extract to the affected joints three times a day for six weeks reduced pain and improved joint function in people with knee osteoarthritis.
2. May improve asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory condition that causes difficulty breathing, wheezing, coughing, and chest tightness due to the narrowing of the airways. Frankincense may help improve asthma symptoms by preventing the production of leukotrienes, which are inflammatory molecules that cause bronchial constriction.
In one study, 70% of people with asthma who took 300 milligrams of frankincense daily for six weeks reported improvements in their symptoms, such as wheezing, shortness of breath, and chest tightness.
Another study found that inhaling frankincense oil through a nebulizer (a device that turns liquid into mist) for two weeks improved lung function and reduced inflammation in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), a lung condition that often coexists with asthmatics.
3. May fights cancer
Cancer is an illness that involves the abnormal growth and spread of cells in the body. Frankincense may have anti-cancer effects by inducing apoptosis, which is the programmed cell death of cancer cells, and preventing angiogenesis, which is the formation of new blood vessels that feed tumors.
Numerous studies have shown that frankincense extract or oil can inhibit the growth and invasion of various types of cancer cells, such as breast, prostate, pancreatic, skin, and colon cancer.
However, most of these studies were done in test tubes or animals, and more human trials are needed in order to confirm the safety and efficacy of frankincense for cancer treatment.
One human study found that taking 4.2 grams of frankincense daily for seven weeks reduced brain edema (fluid accumulation) in people with brain tumors by 60%, compared to 26% of those who received a placebo. This suggests that frankincense may help decrease the pressure and symptoms caused by brain tumors.
4. May improves oral health
Oral health is important for preventing infections, tooth decay, gum disease, and bad breath. Frankincense may help improve oral hygiene and prevent gum disease by providing antibacterial properties that can kill harmful bacteria in the mouth.
One study found that chewing a gum resin containing 10% frankincense extract for two weeks reduced plaque formation, gingival index (a measure of gum inflammation), and microbial count in people with chronic gingivitis (gum inflammation)
Another study found that using a mouthwash containing 6% frankincense extract twice a day for two weeks reduced plaque index (a measure of plaque accumulation), gingival index, bleeding index (a measure of gum bleeding), and microbial count in people with gingivitis.
5. May enhance digestion
Digestion is the process of breaking down food and absorbing nutrients into the body. Frankincense may help enhance digestion by stimulating the secretion of **digestive
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