Frankincense research Proven natural medicine with a long tradition is effective against many ailments

Frankincense is also used in traditional medicine

Frankincense is used not only in the church, but also as a natural remedy and in traditional medicine. A new book now provides a comprehensive overview of scientific research and insights into frankincense, its ingredients and their principles of action.

Part of religious ceremonies

According to tradition, incense was already among the gifts of the Three Kings, which they brought next to myrrh and gold for the newborn baby Jesus to Bethlehem. Since ancient times, the aromatic fragrance of incense resin has been part of many religious ceremonies and lends a special expression to many festivals in the church today. And frankincense has also been used in traditional medicine for many years.

Frankincense is used not only for religious ceremonies but also as a cure for various diseases. (Image: Madeleine Steinbach / fotolia.com)

Extensive overview of scientific research

"Frankincense has been used for ritual and medical purposes for several thousand years," explains chemist Prof. Dr. med. René Csuk from Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg (MLU) in a statement.

The expert, together with colleagues from the University of Nizwa (Oman) in a new book provides a comprehensive overview of scientific research and insights into frankincense, its ingredients and their principles of action.

Kilogram of incense costs up to 2,000 euros

According to information, the first source of incense from Egypt dates back to 1500 BC. In India, Africa, China, ancient Greece and Rome, tree resin has also been used for many different purposes.

And also in the Bible there are 22 places where frankincense is mentioned directly.

"Frankincense is currently experiencing a renaissance, especially in the wellness industry. Not all incense preparations are really meaningful, but the business is very lucrative, "says Csuk

One kilogram of frankincense can reach up to 2,000 euros on the market.

Of particular interest are the boswellia acids

Frankincense is obtained from Boswellia trees, which grow mainly in Oman, India and parts of Africa. The trees are cut in several places, where then a liquid emerges.

When this is dried, the frankincense resin can be harvested. Of particular interest are the boswellia acids that are found in the incense.

According to the announcement, the first scientific study on incense dates back to 1892: the two chemists Alexander Tschirch and Oscar Halbey were the first to study the composition of incense.

The researchers from Germany and Oman have worked on over 350 scientific publications on frankincense and boswellic acids for their book.

"Our goal was to give a comprehensive overview of incense research," says René Csuk.

The chapters are therefore not only devoted to the chemical mode of action of the individual ingredients, but also to pharmaceutical studies. They also give an overview of the different types of frankincense and historical aspects.

Without strong side effects

"Remarkably, recent efficacy studies of frankincense confirm its traditional, very broad uses," says Csuk.

For example, several studies certify that the boswellia acids contained in frankincense have an anti-inflammatory effect.

However, the substances can not only relieve inflammation, but also achieve good results in the treatment of chronic diseases such as osteoarthritis or Crohn's disease, skin diseases, malignant neoplasms or ulcers.

In addition, they even act in part against various cancers. In addition, some ingredients of frankincense may be a very good supplement to other drugs and even enhance the effects of other substances.

The special feature: Most studies do not describe any strong side effects.

"However, reputable frankincense clinical trials are still in short supply and clinical efficacy has not been fully explored and proven. Our book should also provide an impetus for further research projects, "explains Csuk.

Frankincense itself has not yet been fully explored: So there could be other, previously unknown ingredients. (Ad)