Frankincense comes from an evergreen and resinous tree which has a papery and peeling bark. This tree in spring has clusters of feathery leaves with creamy little white flowers, and seeds appear on it, which look like dark reddish capsules. It is an aromatic resin, which is why it is used in making perfumes and incense. The gum or resin of frankincense is used for therapeutic purposes as well. Uses of Frankincense It has antiseptic, nervine, decongestant and expectorant properties, which makes it an excellent alternative medicine. The uses can be classified into three categories, when it taken internally, when it is used externally, and its aromatherapy uses. Let us look at each in detail. When Frankincense is Used Internally

• It helps in treating urinary infections.
• It helps to get rid of bronchial infections, and acts as an expectorant.
• It has analgesic effects and is used to provide relief from pain during menstruation.
• It is also used as a rejuvenating medicine.
• It's a sedative and helps to calm a person.

When Frankincense is Used Externally

• Its topical application helps to relieve from rheumatic and arthritic conditions.
• It is used to treat vaginal infections by using as a douche.
• It is inhaled to get rid of mucus in bronchial infections.
• For dental health, it is used as a mouthwash.
• It is also used to treat gum and throat conditions.
• It is used to make many anti-wrinkle lotions and creams.

When Frankincense is Used in Aromatherapy

• Due to its sedative properties it is greatly used in aromatherapy, and smelling frankincense essential oil helps to calm fast breathing.
• This oil is used for meditation, and burning it produces trahydrocannabinole, which is a psychoactive substance considered to expand consciousness.
• It greatly helps to clear the lungs from mucus and infections.
• Women suffering from heavy periods, by using frankincense can lighten the flow.
• It helps to balance oily skin condition.
• It is antiseptic and helps to heal wounds, ulcers, inflammations, etc.
• It also boosts skin vitality and aids in a younger looking complexion.

How to Use Frankincense Before trying any medicinal uses for frankincense, read the label on the product properly for the warning and instructions on how to use it. One can buy pure frankincense essential oil for USD 23 or a box of frankincense incense sticks for few dollars, from a health store or online. Skin Remedies: You can use frankincense oil, to treat wounds especially tetanus infections. In case of a bleeding cut or injury, this oil with its coagulant properties can help to stop excessive bleeding. It can also be used to treat inflammatory skin conditions like acne. It also works great for natural skin care and helps to reduce scars and blemishes. Urinary Problems Remedy: As already mentioned above, it helps in treating urinary conditions. To use it as a remedy for urinary problems, add 8 - 10 drops of frankincense to the bath water. Menstrual Problem Remedies: Mix 3 - 4 drops of frankincense with 1 teaspoon of carrier oil. When suffering from heavy periods, use the above mix and massage on the lower abdomen. Repeat this remedy twice in a day, to lighten heavy periods. When suffering from severe menstrual cramps, add 8 - 10 drops of frankincense essential oil in bath water. For Meditation: You can buy incense which are made using frankincense and myrrh. Burn these incense while mediating. It will help to deepen your meditation. Cysts Removal: Tea tree oil and frankincense oil have been used for ages to treat cysts. Take 2 drops of tea tree oil and 2 drops of frankincense oil and add 20 drops of olive oil to this mix. Apply this mix twice in a day to the cyst using a cotton bud. Within few weeks the cysts will shrink and eventually disappear. For Headache: When suffering from a headache rub a drop of frankincense oil to each temple. Within few minutes you will relax and find relief from headache. You can also put few drops of frankincense on the pillow to help you relax and sleep better. Lung Congestion: Dilute frankincense oil with a carrier oil and apply it to your throat and chest area. If you can tolerate it then apply a bit to the forehead and nose area too. This will help to get rid of lung congestion and stuffy nose. Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.