Information on Frankincense & Myrrh

Historical Use

• Throughout the ancient world, frankincense and myrrh were burned as fragrant incenses. In the 5th century B.C., the Greek historian Herodotus asserted that "Arabia is the only country which produces frankincense," stating that frankincense trees were "guarded by winged serpents of small size and various colors." Traders carried frankincense and myrrh from Arabia to India, China and the Mediterranean. In Egypt, myrrh was used in embalming the bodies of Pharaohs. Similarly, the body of Jesus was allegedly anointed with myrrh. According to the Bible, Jesus was presented with offerings of gold, frankincense and myrrh by the three wise men at his birth. In China, frankincense was known as fanhunxiang, or "calling back the soul fragrance." In this context it was burned during funerary rites.

Medicinal Properties of Frankincense

• In the November 1998 issue of the "Herb Companion," Gloria Bucco states that frankincense has been used to treat arthritis, as it decreases swelling and promotes circulation in the joints. It also possesses mild sedative and pain-relieving properties. Subhuti Dharmananda, Ph.D, the director of the Institute for Traditional Medicine, says that frankincense may lower cholesterol and combat asthma, bronchitis, dysentery, ulcers, diarrhea and skin diseases.

Medicinal Properties of Myrrh

• In an article in the January 2009 issue of the "Herb Companion," James A. Duke, Ph.D. says that myrrh can be applied topically for pain relief for wounds and aches. Myrrh is also used to heal bed sores, according to an article by Cathy Margolin at Insider's Health.