Frankincense, along with gold and myrrh, is one of the most famous Christmas presents in history. A growing body of research has recently unlocked the door to understand why frankincense is so beneficial to our health.
In a new study, researchers in the journal, BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, demonstrated that this herb has the potential for an alternative therapy for bladder cancer. It kills off its cells. This cancer is twice as common in males as it is in females.
The researchers investigated the effects of frankincense oil in two different types of cells in culture: human bladder cancer cells and normal bladder cells. They found that the oil was able to discriminate between normal and cancerous bladder cells in culture, and specifically kill cancer cells.
Further tests to determine how frankincense oil affects bladder cancer cell survival indicated that the oil suppresses cancer cell growth by arresting cell cycle progression and induces bladder cancer cell death by activating multiple cell death pathways.
Previously, Leicester University researchers had found frankincense resin also a cure for many cancers ( ovarian, colon, breast and prostate). A study that tested AKBA (acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid), a chemical compound in the resin, on ovarian cancer cells found it has cancer killing properties.
Frankincense (gum resin) is the resin of the Boswellia sacra, a small tree found across Africa and Arabia. It is traditionally burned as incense. The resin is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and is widely used in folk medicine to treat asthma, skin conditions and gastroenteritis among others.
This fragrant resin is transformed into an essential oil that’s valued not only in religious practice, but also in aromatherapy and natural health.
The study’s lead author, Kamla Al-Salmani, said : “After a year of studying the AKBA compound with ovarian cancer cell lines in vitro, we have been able to show it is effective at killing the cancer cells. Frankincense is taken by many people with no known side-effects,”
Al-Salmani said that medical professionals can take this finding further by carrying out clinical trial on this into an alternative treatment for ovarian cancer.
Dr Mark Evans, Kamla’s PhD Supervisor and Lecturer in the University’s Department of Cancer Studies and Molecular Medicine in a comment said “What has been most surprising is that the cells we have tested which are resistant to chemotherapy have been shown to be more sensitive to this compound, suggesting frankincense may indeed be able to help overcome drug resistance, and lead to an improved survival rate for patients with late-stage ovarian cancer.”
Frankincense is also beneficial in boosting the immune system. In a study published by Phytotherapy Research, for instance, when mice took Frankincense orally it was discovered that multiple levels of their immune systems were stimulated.
Dr Titi Oduye, a holistic health consultant at Amelia’s Organic limited, Lagos, described frankincense oil as one of the many essential oils that can be used to support good health, declaring that the use of these oils for health dates back to centuries.
Oduye, who spoke generally about oils that are derived from plants that have medicinal values, referred to as essential oils, said many of them have antibacterial and antifungal properties. Some are also used to balance one’s mood, uplift the spirit and create a romantic atmosphere.
The holistic health expert, who said some of these essential oils are even more effective than herbal extracts in treatment of some conditions because they are quickly absorbed into the body, said these oils form the basis of aromatherapy.
Oduye, who indicated that scientific studies were supporting Frankincense’s immune-boosting and antiseptic properties, said it is known for its comforting properties, and is useful for visualizing, improving one’s spiritual connection, and helping to overcome stress and despair.
She added that in aromatherapy, frankincense oil is either inhaled or diffused via a vaporizer, being a very effective sedative that induces a feeling of mental peace, relaxation, and satisfaction, and helps relieve anxiety, anger and stress.
Frankincense oil is useful for skin health, and can help treat dry skin, reverse signs of aging, and reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scars.
Also, frankincense oil can break up phlegm deposits in the respiratory tract and lungs, and can relieve bronchitis-related congestion as well as a natural painkiller in persons with rheumatoid arthritis.
Research by Cardiff University scientists found that frankincense can prevent the production of key inflammatory molecules, helping to prevent the breakdown of the cartilage tissue that causes rheumatoid arthritis.
She highlighted other uses of essential oils for health purposes. Eucalyptus oil, she said, is a powerful antiseptic oil that can be used on burns to prevent infections. Also, when the oil is breathed in, it helps to clear blocked nose. Also, when mixed with water or vegetable oils, it makes a good insect repellent.
Well known for its skin healing properties, lavender oil is invaluable for insect stings, cuts and burns. It is also used as a headache remedy. Similarly, lemon oil balances support control of oily hair and dandruff.
Nutmeg oil can stimulate the heart and circulation, activate the mind and revive fainting spells. It is also a remedy for bad breath. Also, peppermint has been used for many centuries as a medicine, particularly in the treatment of digestive problems and also as an excellent insect repellent.
Clove oil is very warm and stimulating to the system, and is very useful to people who have cold extremities. It promotes sweating with fevers and cold flu. Tea tree oils work well on a wide range of skin problems, including blemishes, rashes and warts. Lemongrass oil revitalises the body; it relieves some of the symptoms of jetlag, clears headaches and helps with nervous exhaustion and stress related conditions.