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Exploring the Realm of Frankincense Essential Oil - A Comparative Analysis of 4 Popular Brands

Alex Schnetzer

February 9, 2020

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Essential oils have gained significant popularity in recent years due to their potential therapeutic benefits and pleasant aromas. With numerous brands flooding the market, it can be challenging to choose the right one. In this comprehensive review, we will explore and compare the features, pros, and cons of five popular essential oil brands.

By understanding the unique offerings of each brand, you will be equipped to make an informed decision about which frankincense essential oil is best suited to your personal needs and preferences. So, let’s embark on this journey to explore the fascinating world of frankincense and discover how it can help enhance our mental well-being.

Unveiling the Wonders of Frankincense

Frankincense, known scientifically as Boswellia, is a resin obtained from various species of the Boswellia tree. This resin has been treasured for its rich aroma and therapeutic properties in various cultures throughout history. Its use can be traced back to ancient Egypt, where it was a prized ingredient in incense, cosmetics, and religious rituals. Today, frankincense essential oil is highly valued for its potential to promote mental well-being.

When it comes to the mind, frankincense essential oil has long been associated with numerous benefits. It is renowned for its ability to induce a sense of calm and relaxation, making it a popular choice for meditation and stress relief. The warm, woody scent of frankincense has a soothing effect on the mind, helping to reduce anxiety, ease restlessness, and promote emotional balance.

Additionally, frankincense is believed to enhance focus and concentration, making it beneficial for studying, work, and creative endeavors. Its aromatic properties are often used in aromatherapy practices to create a serene environment conducive to mindfulness and mental clarity.

Frankincense Essential Oil Buying Guide: Your Path to Selecting the Finest Aroma and Quality

If you’re looking to purchase frankincense essential oil, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure you select a high-quality and effective product. Here are five key factors to consider when buying frankincense essential oil:

Purity and Quality:

When purchasing frankincense essential oil, it’s crucial to prioritize purity and quality. Look for oils that are 100% pure and free from any additives, fillers, or synthetic ingredients. High-quality oils are typically derived through steam distillation or cold pressing methods, ensuring the preservation of beneficial compounds.

Sourcing and Origin:

Consider the sourcing and origin of the frankincense essential oil. Frankincense resin is sourced from different regions around the world, which are renowned for producing higher quality frankincense. Look for oils sourced from reputable suppliers who work directly with experienced distillers or farmers. It’s also worth considering oils that are sustainably harvested to support ethical practices.

Aroma and Intensity:

Frankincense essential oil offers a distinctive aroma that can vary depending on the species and the region it comes from. It’s important to choose an oil with an aroma that appeals to you. Consider whether you prefer a woody, earthy, or citrus-like fragrance. Additionally, consider the intensity of the aroma. Some oils may have a more potent scent than others, so choose according to your preferences and the desired purpose of use.

Species and Type:

Frankincense essential oil is available in various species, each with its own unique characteristics and potential benefits. The most common types include Boswellia carterii, Boswellia frereana, and Boswellia sacra. Research the properties of each species to determine which one aligns with your specific needs or desired effects. Keep in mind that different species may have distinct therapeutic properties and aromas.

Price and Packaging:

Consider the price and packaging of the frankincense essential oil. While price alone doesn’t indicate quality, extremely low-priced oils may be diluted or of lower quality. Look for oils that are reasonably priced based on the market standards. Pay attention to the packaging as well; choose oils that come in dark glass bottles, as they help protect the oil from degradation caused by light exposure.

Remember to read customer reviews and consider the recommendations of aromatherapy experts or essential oil enthusiasts. By considering these factors, you can make an informed decision and find a high-quality frankincense essential oil that meets your expectations and serves your desired purposes.

Our Top 5 Frankincense Essential Oils

Aspero

Best frankincense essential oil

Why it is our top pick:

Among the frankincense essential oils we’ve reviewed, Aspero stands out as our top pick due to its exceptional quality and versatility. The captivating aroma and potential therapeutic benefits make it an excellent choice for aromatherapy enthusiasts, practitioners, and those seeking a premium essential oil experience.

Product Overview:

Aspero is a top-tier product that combines exceptional quality, versatile applications, and sustainable practices. By incorporating this oil into your daily routine, you can enjoy the enticing aroma and potential benefits while supporting responsible sourcing.

Key Ingredient/s

  • Frankincense – obtained from the Boswellia tree, particularly Boswellia sacra, Boswellia carterii, and Boswellia serrata. The resin contains various compounds, including terpenes, sesquiterpenes, and boswellic acids, which contribute to its unique properties.
  • Alpha-pinene – a naturally occurring monoterpene, belonging to the class of compounds called terpenes. Alpha-pinene is known for its distinct pine-like aroma and is commonly used in perfumes, cosmetics, and cleaning products. It also has potential therapeutic properties and is studied for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and bronchodilator effects.
  • P7C3 – a chemical compound that has gained attention in scientific research related to neuroprotection and neurogenesis. It is part of a class of compounds called aminopropyl carbazoles. P7C3 and its derivatives have shown potential in promoting the survival and growth of new neurons in the brain, which could be beneficial for conditions such as neurodegenerative diseases or brain injuries.

Our Experience:

From the moment we opened the bottle, we knew we had stumbled upon something extraordinary. The scent was rich, complex, and incredibly captivating. The fragrance exuded a harmonious blend of resinous, citrusy, and slightly spicy notes that transported me to a state of pure tranquility.

But it wasn’t just the scent that won us over. Aspero’s frankincense oil was potent, and a little went a long way, making it an excellent value for the price. Moreover, the staying power was remarkable, providing us with a lingering aroma throughout the day.

HBNO

Product Overview

HNBO offers a convenient option for those seeking the benefits of frankincense in their aromatherapy and skincare routines. This essential oil is marketed as a versatile product with various potential uses. The frankincense aroma provided by this oil can create a calming and soothing atmosphere, making it a popular choice for relaxation and stress relief.

Key Ingredient/s

  • Frankincense from India – this particular Frankincense variety possesses a subtly nuanced aroma and a mild potency. Sourced from Indian regions, this Frankincense exudes a delicate fragrance, allowing for a gentle and balanced experience. Its nuanced characteristics make it an appealing choice for those seeking a more subtle aromatic profile in their products.

Our Experience:

The scent of their frankincense oil was undeniably classic, with deep woody notes that instantly transported us to ancient times. However, we found the overall potency to be slightly lacking, and the staying power left much to be desired. It was a good option, but we knew it wasn’t the best out there.

SVA

Product Overview

SVA Frankincense Essential Oil is marketed as a natural and pure option for those seeking the therapeutic benefits of frankincense. This essential oil is derived from high-quality frankincense resin and is claimed to offer numerous applications for aromatherapy and holistic wellness.

Our Experience:

Their frankincense oil had a warm and inviting aroma that felt incredibly calming. However, we did notice a slight artificial undertone that detracted from the authenticity we were seeking. It was lovely, but not quite what we were looking for.

doTERRA

Product Overview:

doTerra offers a multitude of benefits for both physical and emotional well-being. Sourced from the resin of Boswellia trees, this exceptional oil boasts a rich, woody aroma that promotes relaxation and enhances meditation practices. Renowned for its rejuvenating properties, doTerra promises a support in healthy cellular function, reduction of the appearance of skin imperfections, and promotion of a youthful complexion.

Key Ingredient/s:

  • Derived from the resin of the Boswellia tree – the oil is extracted through a steam distillation process, resulting in an essential oil that contains a complex composition of various bioactive compounds, including alpha-pinene, limonene, and incensole acetate, which contribute to its therapeutic properties.

 

Our Experience:

As soon as we opened their frankincense oil, we were greeted by a robust and resinous fragrance that sent my senses into overdrive. The potency and longevity were impressive, but unfortunately, the scent leaned towards overpowering. We wanted a more balanced and nuanced experience.

Glicanic

Product Overview:

Cliganic is sourced from the resin of Boswellia trees and extracted through a steam distillation process. It is versatile and can be used for aromatherapy, topical application, and dilution for various purposes. It is known for its potential benefits in promoting relaxation, reducing the appearance of skin imperfections, and supporting overall well-being.

Key Ingredients:

Boswellia serrata – commonly known as Indian frankincense, is a tree resin that is used to extract essential oil. The oil derived from Boswellia serrata contains a variety of active compounds, including boswellic acids, terpenes, and essential oils. These constituents are believed to contribute to the therapeutic properties of Boswellia serrata, such as its potential anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.

Our Experience:

Their frankincense oil was a delight to behold, offering a delicate and enchanting aroma that was both comforting and grounding. However, we felt that the scent dissipated rather quickly, leaving us longing for a longer-lasting olfactory experience.

Our Verdict:

Features & Benefits ★★★★☆ (4/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5) ★★☆☆☆ (2/5)
User Experience ★★★★☆ (4/5) ★★★★☆ (4/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Ingredients ★★★★☆ (4/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Value for Money ★★★☆☆ (3/5) ★★★★☆ (4/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5) ★★★★☆ (4/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
Overall Rating: ★★★☆☆ (3.75/5) ★★★☆☆ (3.5/5) ★★★☆☆ (3/5) ★★★☆☆ (3.25/5) ★★☆☆☆ (2.75/5)

When choosing frankincense essential oil, it’s important to consider a few things. Look for oil that is pure and of good quality and find out where it comes from and how it’s made. Think about how it smells and its strength because these are significant in determining your experience when you use or diffuse the oils. And lastly, think about the price and how it’s packaged.

Among the five brands we reviewed, Aspero has been the best choice so far . Its comfortable scent and potential medicinal benefits make it ideal for those who are looking for a premium essential oil experience. However, everyone has different preferences, so it’s a good idea to read reviews and listen to experts before deciding which frankincense essential oil to choose.

FAQs:

  • Is frankincense essential oil safe for everyone
    While many people can use frankincense oil without any problems, some may have allergies to some of its ingredients. If you have any concerns or experience negative reactions, it’s important to stop using it and consult your doctor.

  • Can pregnant women use frankincense essential oil?

Pregnant women should be more careful when using essential oils, including frankincense. While it is considered safe during pregnancy, it is still best to ask your doctor before using it. They are the best who can give you more guidance and medical advice.

  • Is frankincense essential oil safe for topical use?

Frankincense oil is safe for most skin types and can help make scars, wrinkles, and blemishes look better. But everyone’s skin is different, so it’s a good idea to test a small amount first. If it makes your skin red or itchy, stop using it and ask a doctor or someone who knows about skin for help.

  • How effective is frankincense essential oil?

Frankincense essential oil is believed to be helpful for making you feel calm and relaxed. It may also help with reducing stress and making you feel better. But remember, different people may have different experiences, and scientists are still learning more about how it works.