Frankincense [Boswellia carterii]
Frankincense [Boswellia carterii] is the resin of the Boswelia tree. To obtain frankincense, the bark of the tree is cut several times to allow a white, milky resin to seep from the bark. The resin is left on the tree to dry in the sun for a few days, after which the so called ‘resin tears’ are scraped off. The resin tears consist of 60% resin and 5-15% essential oils.
When the oil is applied topically, it can make scars fade at a much faster rate. This also includes the fading of stretch marks and scarring associated with pregnancy, if used post-labour. This astringent quality of frankincense essential oil can reduce the appearance of lines.
Frankincense promotes regeneration of healthy cells and also keeps the existing cells and tissues healthy. This aspect of frankincense oil together with its powerful astringent capabilities, creates a potent ingredient. It can help to eliminate sun spots, remove micro-wrinkles around the eyes and cheeks, and generally tone and tighten skin all over the body, while simultaneously helping to replace old or dying cells with new, healthy ones.
