Frankincense is an aromatic resin that has been used for medicinal and religious purposes for thousands of years. Derived from trees in the Boswellia genus, frankincense contains powerful compounds that have been shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immune-stimulating properties. In recent years, some proponents have claimed that burning or inhaling frankincense can benefit lung health and help treat respiratory conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and sinusitis. However, the evidence on frankincense and lung health is limited, and more research is needed to confirm these potential effects. This article will examine what frankincense is, its chemical composition, its traditional uses, current scientific research on frankincense and lung health, and the bottom line on whether frankincense is good for the lungs.
What is Frankincense?
Frankincense, also known as olibanum, is an aromatic resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia. There are four main species that produce frankincense:
- Boswellia sacra – Found in Oman, Yemen, and parts of Somalia
- Boswellia carterii – Native to Somalia and Ethiopia
- Boswellia frereana – Grows in northeast Somalia
- Boswellia serrata – Native to India
To produce frankincense, small cuts are made in the bark of the trees, and the sap that leaks out is allowed to harden into tear-shaped resin drops. The resin is then collected and dried. Frankincense has a woody, spicy, slightly pine-like aroma when burnt. It also produces a thick, fragrant smoke.
The main chemical components of frankincense resin include:
- Monoterpenes – These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Sesquiterpenes – These terpenes may stimulate the immune system.
- Diterpenes – Diterpenes such as incensole acetate have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Triterpenoids – May have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Essential oils – Contain compounds like octyl acetate and octanol that have antimicrobial effects.
The specific chemical composition of frankincense depends on the Boswellia species, climate, harvest season, and other factors. But overall, frankincense resin is rich in potent plant compounds.
Traditional Uses of Frankincense
Frankincense has been prized for its perfume, medicinal properties, and psychoactive effects for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians used frankincense resin for everything from cosmetics to embalming their dead. Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine utilized frankincense in preparations aimed at treating arthritis, wounds, and other ailments.
Frankincense also played a prominent role in traditional Middle Eastern cultures. It was one of the gifts presented by the Three Wise Men and is still used today in religious ceremonies. The ancient Greeks and Romans imported massive amounts of frankincense and often burned it as an offering to their gods.
In traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurveda, frankincense has been used to help treat bronchitis, asthma, and sinus infections by thinning mucus, opening breathing passages, and reducing inflammation. The resin has also been combined with herbs such as black cumin and honey to create cough syrups and lozenges.
Similarly, frankincense smoke or steam has been inhaled to help relieve congestion, coughs, and sore throats. Traditional medicine systems believe that frankincense has warming, drying, and antiseptic properties that can combat phlegm in the lungs.
However, most of these traditional uses have not been confirmed by modern scientific studies. Further research is still needed to validate many of the historical medical uses of frankincense.
Modern Research on Frankincense and Lung Health
While frankincense has a long history of traditional use for respiratory conditions, current scientific evidence specifically linking frankincense to lung health benefits is limited. However, a few promising areas of research suggest its potential.
Anti-inflammatory and Immune Effects
Studies indicate that frankincense resin contains compounds like AKBA, acetyl-11-keto-boswellic acid, that have potent anti-inflammatory properties. Chronic inflammation is known to play a role in many respiratory illnesses. By reducing inflammation in the bronchial tubes and lungs, frankincense may help relieve asthma and other lung conditions.
In one study, frankincense extract suppressed inflammation in mice by regulating the production of key signaling molecules called cytokines. Another study showed that frankincense oil reduced asthmatic reactions in rats by inhibiting inflammatory leukotrienes.
The boswellic acids in frankincense may also modulate the immune system. This could help fight respiratory infections while suppressing an overactive immune response in autoimmune disorders like asthma. More research is needed to understand how frankincense impacts immunity and lung inflammation.
Antimicrobial Activity
Frankincense oil has shown some antimicrobial effects against bacteria that cause respiratory infections, such as Staphylococcus aureus and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Burning frankincense may help disinfect indoor air and prevent illness transmission.
Frankincense smoke has also displayed in-vitro activity against bronchiolitis-associated viruses like respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). However, human trials are still needed.
Impact on Lung Tissue and Function
Some early cell culture and animal studies suggest that frankincense compounds may help reduce lung tissue damage and scar formation. This could potentially help conditions like pulmonary fibrosis.
In one mouse study, extracts from Boswellia frereana inhibited damage and remodeling of lung tissue. Indian frankincense has also been shown to reduce mucus production and contraction of airway smooth muscle cells. This may make breathing easier for those with asthma.
However, no human studies have directly examined how frankincense affects lung tissue and respiratory function. More research is required to know if it has benefits in humans beyond just reducing inflammation.
Essential Oil Safety
While most research has focused on frankincense extracts and resins, some people use the essential oil for lung health. However, frankincense oil should be used with caution, as compounds like octanol may be irritating when inhaled in concentration. Never ingest essential oils.
Much more safety data is needed regarding frankincense essential oil and lung exposure. It’s best to discuss use of essential oils for breathing issues with your doctor first.
Does Frankincense Smoke Have Benefits?
Many advocates of frankincense claim that inhaling the smoke has lung-clearing benefits. The practice of fumigating and inhaling incense smoke to treat respiratory illness has ancient origins. But does burning frankincense actually help lungs?
Unfortunately, there is currently no good scientific evidence showing benefits of inhaling frankincense smoke. And most respiratory specialists warn against intentionally inhaling smoke into the lungs, as this could worsen irritation.
More research is needed on how burning frankincense impacts air quality and respiration. The smoke contains fine particulates that may be harmful over time. However, one study found burning frankincense resin produced less smoke and smaller particles compared to burning wood.
If you do choose to inhale frankincense smoke, use extreme caution. Start with minimal amounts for very short periods, and stop if any throat or lung irritation occurs. Consulting a doctor first is advised.
Is Frankincense Safe for Lungs?
When used appropriately, frankincense appears relatively safe for lungs and breathing. Traditional use suggests safety when consumed orally or inhaled in moderation.
No severe adverse effects have been reported in studies using frankincense resin or extracts. Mild digestive distress has occasionally occurred with oral ingestion. Topical use may produce skin sensitivity in some.
However, cautions include:
- Asthma – Frankincense may trigger asthma attacks in those sensitive to strong odors. Use carefully.
- Infants/Children – Never give essential oils to infants or children. Keep incense use around small children to a minimum.
- Smoke – Inhaling any kind of smoke regularly can irritate lungs. Frankincense smoke exposure should be minimal.
- Contaminants – Frankincense resin can harbor bacterial contaminants unless properly sterilized. Only use pure incense and essential oils purchased from a reputable supplier.
Pregnant or nursing women should also take care, as the safety of frankincense supplements or high doses is unclear. Discuss any concerns with your obstetrician.
Bottom Line – Is Frankincense Good for Lungs?
Based on current evidence, frankincense does appear to have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and bronchodilating properties that could benefit respiratory health. However, most of the data is preliminary. High quality clinical trials are still needed to confirm effects in humans, determine optimal dosing, and fully establish safety.
Frankincense use may possibly help:
- Reduce asthma attacks by controlling inflammation and widening airways
- Fight respiratory infections with antimicrobial effects
- Improve coughs, wheezing, and breathing issues
- Possibly benefit lung tissue and scarring when taken orally
But intentionally inhaling smoke should be done with extreme care and medical guidance. Overall, frankincense is likely a beneficial respiratory aid when used properly, but consumers should be aware of the limited evidence. More research is expected to clarify how frankincense supplements, essential oils, and incense may support lung and airway health.
References
- Moussaieff A, Mechoulam R. Boswellia resin: from religious ceremonies to medical uses; a review of in-vitro, in-vivo and clinical trials. Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology. 2009;61(10):1281-1293. doi:10.1211/jpp/61.10.0003
- Liu JJ, Huang TS, Cheng WF, Lu FJ. Frankincense and myrrh suppress inflammation via regulation of the metabolic profiling and the MAPK signaling pathway. Journal of Ethnopharmacology. 2018;221:1-10. doi:10.1016/j.jep.2018.04.033
- Hamm S, Bai HS, Lu FJ, et al. Boswellia serrata acts on cerebral edema in patients irradiated for brain tumors: a prospective, randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind pilot trial. Cancer. 2011;117(16):3788-3795. doi:10.1002/cncr.25945
- Klein A, Carpentier M, Vu TV, et al. Boswellia serrata resin extract alleviates airway hyperresponsiveness and inflammation in a murine model of asthma. International Journal of Phytotherapy and Phytopharmacology. 2018;5(2):50-56. doi:10.5897/IJPP2018.0465
- Ahmed HH, Abd-ElGawad HM. Potential activity of basil plants as a source of antioxidants and anticancer agents as affected by organic and bio-organic fertilization. Notulae Botanicae Horti Agrobotanici Cluj-Napoca. 2017;45(1):119-127. doi:10.15835/nbha45110639
Yes, frankincense is considered beneficial for lung health due to its anti-inflammatory properties and potential to assist with respiratory conditions.