Frankincense and Myrrh – Not Just For Christmas!

Pauline McKee

Frankincense and Myrrh are oils derived from tree resin. Traditionally associated with Christmas as, along with Gold, they were the treasured gifts brought by the Magi to Jesus Christ as described in the Christian Bible.

However, Frankincense and Myrrh have been used for over four thousand years, playing a role in both religious and everyday life in ancient civilisations such as Egyptian, Babylonian, Hebrew, Persian, Roman and Greek.

The anglicised name Frankincense derives from the medieval word franc meaning “pure”, and the Latin inscensium, “to smoke”, while Myrrh gets its name from the Arabic murr, meaning “bitter”.

The ancient Egyptians in particular used the haunting fragrance of Frankincense to enhance meditative states in rituals by burning the resin over hot coals, and also for perfumery and cosmetic purposes, making the famous Egyptian perfume kyphi and kohl eyeliner from the charred gum. Frankincense was also especially cherished for its healing properties in unguents and for its rich and enduring scent.

The ancient Egyptians also revered Myrrh for its use in rituals. They referred to Myrrh as “punt” or “phun” which is derived from the Land of Punt – an area from where they sourced their seedlings and which is thought to be modern day Somalia.

Due to taxes, labour, and the long and arduous journey required to transport it along Southern Arabia’s incense route, both Frankincense and Myrrh became extremely valuable.

These oils are derived from resin extracted from the bark of trees native to the Middle East and North Africa. The resin is then steam-distilled to produce the essential oil we use in aromatherapy today.

So how are Frankincense and Myrrh essential oils used in aromatherapy today?

Both oils are used to treat the nervous system through inhalation thereby easing nervous tension, stress, irritability, restlessness and insomnia.

They can also help to lift the spirits and ease depression. By calming the mind, the oils’ psychological and spiritual benefits can enhance the practice of meditation and mindfulness – an effect known as ‘deepening the breath.’

Their expectorant properties can also help to relieve the symptoms of respiratory conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, sinusitis and laryngitis.

Applied as a cream or oil blend to the skin, Frankincense and Myrrh can help with the healing of wounds and scar tissue, treat dry skin conditions and promote cell renewal.

A wonderful anti-inflammatory, Frankincense is often applied to areas of the body affected by arthritic conditions to help relieve symptoms, whilst Myrrh essential oil can also be added to creams to enhance the healing of bedsores, eczema and chapped or cracked skin.

While the mere mention of Frankincense and Myrrh may initially bring thoughts of Christmas time to mind – along with sipping mulled wine in front of a cosy fire – these essential oils are used all year round for their wonderful properties and the positive effects they have on the mind, body and spirit.

For thousands of years many civilisations have valued these oils for their healing and wellbeing properties and they will continue to be valued for many thousands of years to come.