Eugenia Essentials

As Christmas approaches I started thinking about two of the gifts presented to the baby Jesus by the Magi: Frankincense and Myrrh. When I was a child, I always wondered what these two mysterious gifts were and why would anyone give these to a baby?  Frankincense has been revered since biblical times and was a heavily traded commodity. Its versatile uses and spiritual and medicinal properties would have made this a welcome gift in ancient times.

If you are Catholic, the scent of Frankincense (Boswellia carteri) is familiar to you.  This is the incense the priest uses to purify the air during the Mass. Its comforting fragrance is associated with the spirit of Christ and life.

Frankincense resin “tears” are obtained from four species of Boswellia trees and comes in various grades. The grades are based on color, aroma and age. The Boswellia tree is able to grow in extremely harsh conditions and environments. The harsher the environment, the more fragrant is the aroma of the resin. Tree populations are now in decline due to heavy exploitation.

Burning Frankincense repels mosquitoes, protecting people and livestock from mosquito borne illnesses.  The aroma of the essential oil is balsamic and spicy. Modern medical research is being done on the effects of Frankincense against tumors, colitis, and various forms of arthritis.

Some of the medicinal properties include: antiseptic, astringent, diuretic, expectorant, uterine tonic, anti-inflammatory, sedative and an immune stimulant.  Frankincense may also assist with laryngitis and other respiratory ailments and is wonderful for the skin. Frankincense aids in clearing the mind and increases alertness. The emotional benefits include relief from anxiety, nervous tension and stress. It’s helpful for obsessive thinking, meditation, fears, nightmares and depression.

Frankincense should be avoided during pregnancy.