Frankincense

• Overview
• Uses
• Side Effects
• Precautions
• Dosing

Frankincense is the hardened gum-like material (resin) that comes from cuts made in the trunk of the Boswellia carteri tree. People use it to make medicine.

Frankincense is used for colic and intestinal gas (flatulence). It is sometimes applied to the skin in hand cream.

The essential oil of frankincense is used on the skin and by inhalation as a pain-killer.

How does it work?

There isn't enough information available to know how frankincense works.

Insufficient Evidence to Rate Effectiveness for...

• Colic.
• Intestinal gas (flatulence).
• Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of frankincense for these uses.

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate (detailed description of each of the ratings).

Frankincense seems safe for use by most adults. It might cause irritation when applied to the skin.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of frankincense during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

The appropriate dose of frankincense depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for frankincense. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.