Frankincense: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Frankincense is a hardened gum-like material (resin) that comes from the trunk of the Boswellia tree. People use its oil on the skin and in aromatherapy.

Frankincense oil seems to kill some types of bacteria and fungi (yeasts). It is commonly used as a fragrance in soaps, lotions, and perfumes.

People use frankincense for aging skin, wound healing, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support any use. There is also no good evidence to support using frankincense for COVID-19.

Boswellia tree extracts are also sometimes taken by mouth. For information on taking frankincense by mouth, see Boswellia serrata.

Uses & Effectiveness

We currently have no information for Frankincense overview.

Side Effects

When applied to the skin: Frankincense essential oil or gum extract is possibly safe. It might cause skin irritation in some people.

When inhaled: Frankincense essential oil is possibly safe. There isn't enough reliable information to know what the side effects might be.

For information on the safety of taking frankincense by mouth, see Boswellia serrata.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if frankincense is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Interactions

We currently have no information for Frankincense overview.

Dosing

Frankincense is used in soaps, lotions, and perfumes. It's also used as aromatherapy. There isn't enough reliable information to know what an appropriate dose of frankincense might be. 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 a healthcare professional before using.

For information on taking frankincense by mouth, see Boswellia serrata.

View References

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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