Frankincense: uses, side effects, interactions

Benefits

What is incense for?

Frankincense is a tree sap belonging to the Stryraz species. Another name for frankincense is benzoin.

In Indonesia, incense is often used as incense or a mixture of incense cigarettes. In addition, frankincense is also used as raw material in the perfume, medicine, cosmetics and pharmaceutical industries.

In dentistry, frankincense is used to treat swollen gums and cold sores in the mouth. Meanwhile in manufacturing, frankincense is used in the manufacture of pharmaceutical drugs, such as as an expectorant for bronchitis and as a disinfectant in wounds.

Some people apply it directly to the skin to kill germs, reduce swelling, and stop bleeding in small wounds. Frankincense is also used topically for skin ulcers, bedsores, and cracked skin. In combination with other herbs (aloe, storax, and balm tolu), frankincense is a fairly good skin barrier. This combination is known as a "benzoin compound tincture."

How does it work?

There is not enough research into how this herbal plant works. Discuss with your herbalist or doctor for more information.

However, there are several studies that show the uses of frankincense are as:

• Antiseptic agent for sensitive skin
• Carminative agents to prevent or reduce flatulence
• Expectorants to stimulate expulsion of phlegm from the respiratory tract

Dose

The information provided below is not a substitute for medical recommendations. Always consult your herbalist or doctor before taking this medicine.

What is the usual dose for frankincense for adults?

The dosage of each herbal medicine can be different for each patient. The dose you need depends on your age, health, and several other conditions. Herbal medicines are not always safe to take. Discuss with your herbalist or doctor for a dosage that is suitable for you.

In what forms is frankincense available?

The forms and dosages of benzoin are:

• Cream
• Lotion
• Ointment
• Tinctures or liquids

Side effects

What side effects can frankincense cause?

The most common side effects of using frankincense are:

• Rash, allergic reactions, hypersensitivity, contact dermatitis
• Asthma
• Gastritis (ulcer)
• Gastrointestinal
• Anaphylaxis

Not everyone experiences this side effect. There may be other side effects which are not listed here. If you have concerns about certain side effects, please consult your herbalist or doctor.

Security

What should I know before consuming frankincense?

Some things that you should pay attention to before using incense are:

• Frankincense should not be consumed or by people with hypersensitivity to this herb.
• Use frankincense as a topical or inhaled medicine only.
• Check for hypersensitivity reactions, including anaphylaxis.
• Check for gastrointestinal bleeding such as dark stools, gastritis, abdominal pain.
• You should test this herb on a small area before applying it to a larger area, such as the skin of your elbows. If after testing you feel a burning sensation, appear rash, and itching, stop using it immediately.

The regulations governing the use of herbal supplements are less stringent than those of drugs. Further research is needed to determine its safety. Before using, make sure the benefits of using herbal supplements outweigh the risks. Consult an herbalist or doctor for more information.

How safe is frankincense?

Frankincense can be used safely in pregnant women and women who are breastfeeding if you are careful. The use of frankincense should be discontinued if a hypersensitivity reaction occurs.

Interaction

What kind of interactions might occur when I consume incense?

This herbal supplement can interact with other medications or with any health conditions you have. Consult an herbalist or doctor before use.

Lithium interacts with frankincense. Frankincense may have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic." Using frankincense might decrease the body's function of getting rid of lithium.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.