4 Easy Ways To Use Frankincense and Myrrh Resins

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about Frankincense and Myrrh resins!

Revered for their spiritual, medicinal and aromatic properties, the use of Frankincense and Myrrh resins can be traced back to ancient civilisations including Ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia and Ancient China. Due to their sacred symbolism and aromatic allure, these resins have been used in religious rituals, spiritual ceremonies, fragrant offerings and traditional medicine.

In this blog post, we will explore 4 easy ways to harness the power of aromatic resins in your daily rituals, and what some of the best Frankincense and Myrrh resins that you should have.

What Are Resins?
How to Use Frankincense and Myrrh Resins
Best Resins To Use For Aromatherapy
Conclusion

What are Resins?

Resins, which are derived from trees, are normally secreted in response to injury or damage. They contain a complex mixture of organic compounds that serve as a protective mechanism against wounds, infections, pests, pathogens and environmental stressors. Each resin has its own unique chemical constituents that gives it a distinct and characteristic aroma, as well as unique therapeutic properties when used in aromatherapy.

From an ecological perspective, resins play an important role in ecosystem dynamics and plant physiology. They are a vital part of the plant's defence mechanisms, helping to seal wounds, deter herbivores from eating the plant and prevent the spread of disease. Resins also contribute to the healing process of the plant by promoting tissue regeneration and providing antimicrobial properties to prevent infection.

For thousands of years, resins have held significant cultural, spiritual and medicinal importance. Frankincense and Myrrh resins have historically been used to purify spaces, enhance religious rituals and promote spiritual wellbeing. For example, Ancient Egyptians used Frankincense resins in their religious offerings and embalming processes; while Frankincense and Myrrh were two of the three gifts presented to Baby Jesus by the Three Wise Men. The symbolic significance of Frankinense and Myrrh resins extends beyond religious contexts, as they are often associated with purification, protection and spiritual importance.

Today, resins continue to be valued for their aromatic qualities and holistic healing properties. They are used widely in various industries, including aromatherapy, perfumery, skincare, herbalism and natural home remedies.

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How to Use Frankincense and Myrrh Resins

Botanical Incense

Burning Frankincense and Myrrh resins as incense is a time-honored practice. Just like the indigenous tradition of smudging with Palo Santo or White Sage, burning Frankincense and Myrrh resin carries a similar intention of creating sacredness and sanctity. As the aromatic smoke of the resin rises, it cleanses and purifies the air, wards off negative energies and elevates spiritual consciousness.

The best way to use resins for incense is to use a Charcoal Burner. Start by igniting a charcoal disc in a fireproof vessel, ensuring proper ventilation for safety. When the charcoal is glowing, place a few small pieces of the resin on the charcoal. As the resin melts, it will begin to give off a rich, resinous aroma that fills the space, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and reverence. Allow the aromatic incense to fill the space, cleansing the atmosphere and uplifting your spirit. As you inhale the deep, warm and rich scent of the incense, you will feel your breathing slow down and deepen, your mind quietening, and your ability to focus on the present moment increasing. You can also add a few sprigs of your favourite dried aromatic herbs for an extra layer of scent and intention.

This simple yet powerful ritual invites you to ground and center your mind in the present. Burning Frankincense and Myrrh resin as an incense is excellent when it is used for enhancing mindfuless and meditation practices as it infuses your space with tranquility and promotes a sense of stability.

When burning resins, always exercise caution when working with open flames and burning substances. Ensure proper ventilation and never leave burning materials unattended. It is also important to keep the incense burner out of reach of children and pets.

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Infuse Resins for Wellness

Infusing Frankincense and Myrrh resins in carrier oils is a simple, easy and effective method for extracting the therapeutic and aromatic properties of the resin.

After you have selected your resin, choose a carrier oil with skin nourishing properties, such as Golden Jojoba Oil or Extra Virgin Olive Oil. Next, you will need to sterilise a glass jar. This can be done easily if you have an oven. Simply wash the jar and the lid thoroughly with hot soapy water and rinse off any soap residue. Then place the jar and lid in the oven at 120°C for at least 20 minutes to ensure that there is no bacteria in the bottle. Once this is complete, remove the glass jars (be careful as they will be hot!) and allow them to cool completely before handling them.

To infuse resins, simply combine 1 part resin to 4 parts carrier oil, then seal the container. Place it in a warm, sunny spot to allow the resin to naturally infuse into the oil over several days or weeks. You can shake the mixture occasionally to help the infusion process. If you prefer a milder infusion, you can use less resins - we encourage you to experiment with different ratios and carrier oils to find out what works best for your specific needs and preferences.

The resulting resin-infused oil can be used in many ways to enhance your wellness routine. Apply it directly to your skin as a moisturising and aromatic body oil, incorporate it into massage blends for relaxation and rejuvenation, or even make your own luxurious DIY body scrub by combining 2 parts sugar and 1 part resin-infused oil.

Frankincense resin contains Boswellic acid, which is renowned for its powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Boswellic acid has been studied for its potential therapeutic benefits in alleviating various health conditions. A study suggests that it may support immune function by modulating inflammatory pathways and enhancing antioxidant activity, thereby promoting resilience against oxidative stress. If you are seeking to incorporate therapeutic properties of Boswellic acid, Frankincense resins are preferable to the essential oil. As Boswellic acid is a heavy and non-volatile molecule, it is too large to be distilled in the steam distillation process and is thus not available in Frankincense essential oil.

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Make Your Own Balms and Salves

For those seeking natural remedies, Frankincense and Myrrh resins are valuable ingredients for homemade balms and salves. Their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, pain relieving and general healing properties make them ideal for soothing aches and pains, skin irritations, insect bites and more.

To make your own balms, you can use this tried and tested recipe. Firstly, grind 10g of your resin into a powder using a pestle and mortar. Next, using a double boiler method, add 40ml of your chosen carrier oil and resin powder into a heatproof bowl and place it on top of a saucepan filled with boiling water. Stir continuously for a few minutes, then take it off the saucepan and strain the mixture with a cheesecloth. Slowly stir in 30g of beeswax until it is fully melted and incorporated. At this stage, you can also add any extra essential oils you prefer. Transfer the melted mixture to sterilised containers and let it cool until fully hardened before capping.

With a Frankincense or Myrrh resin-infused base, it is easy to customise your balm with additional essential oils depending on your needs. Your homemade balm can be used as a daily skin moisturiser, healing ointment to relieve minor cuts and burns or ease painful insect bites, or even a massage balm for tired hands and feet to promote overall wellbeing.

Some essential oils you can consider adding to your balm are:

- Lavender: Calming and relaxing; heals wounds; anti-inflammatory; soothes insect bites and minor burns
- Sweet Orange: Lymphatic stimulant; detoxifying action; boosts immune system
- Tea Tree: Antimicrobial and antiseptic; excellent for cuts and insect bites as it supports wound healing and prevents infection
- Roman Chamomile: Anti-inflammatory; soothes irritated skin; relieves pain

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Customise A Natural Perfume

If you are thinking of making your own natural perfume, Frankincense and Myrrh resins are one of the best aromatherapy products to incorporate into your perfume. Because of their rich and resinous notes, they will add an incredible depth and complexity to any scent. We encourage you to experiment with different ratios and combinations, such as Citrus or Floral essential oils, to create a signature scent that is truly personal. If you are interested in learning more about the scent profiles of essential oils and different blending techniques, Nila Singapore offers an internationally accredited aromatherapy certification course with expert guidance to deepen your understanding and skills.

To create your own natural perfume, follow this simple recipe: Mix 1 tablespoon of your Golden Jojoba oil, 10 drops of your resin-infused oil, and 10 drops of your chosen complementary essential oils. Combine in a clean and sterilised glass bottle or roll-on container, close the bottle tightly and shake well to blend the oils together.

Allow the perfume to sit for at least 24 hours to allow the scents to develop, then apply sparingly to pulse points such as your wrists, neck and behind your ears for a long lasting and enchanting aroma all day long.

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Best Resins To Use For Aromatherapy

1. Frankincense Sacra Resin

Frankincense Sacra Resins
by Nila Aromatherapy

Frankincense Sacra is also known as the King of Frankincense. Sustainably harvested from Oman, Frankincense Sacra resin is contains Boswellic acid and is also high in alpha-pinene. Both of these are well known for their healing and anti-inflammatory properties, making Frankincense Sacra a prized ingredient in modern aromatherapy and holistic health remedies.

Because of its anti-inflammatory, analgesic (pain relieving), antispasmodic, antimicrobial and calming properties, Frankincense Sacra resin is particularly effective when infused in carrier oil and used as a facial oil to nurture healthy and radiant skin.

It can also be used in a Charcoal Burner for space cleansing and to enhance meditation and mindfulness practices. Frankincense Sacra has an incredibly beautiful and calming aroma that will relax your mind, body and soul, instantly transporting you to a state of tranquility and inner peace.

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2. Frankincense Carteri Resin

Frankincense Carteri Resins
by Nila Aromatherapy

Frankincense Carteri resin is the most widely used variety of frankincense, prized for its exceptional therapeutic properties.

When used as an incense in a burner, the rich and alluring scent of Frankincense Carteri will deepen your breathing and help to ground and centre your mind.

Frankincense Carteri's ability to soothe inflammation, alleviate pain, relax muscles and promote a sense of peace makes it a valuable addition when used for topical application to support our skin health and promote emotional balance.

The best way to utilise Frankincense Carteri resin is to simply infuse in a carrier oil and use as a facial oil for rejuvenating and brightening effects. Apply a few drops onto clean skin and gently massage it in until fully absorbed. Regular use can help improve the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles and uneven skin tone, leaving your skin looking smoother, firmer and more radiant.

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3. Frankincense Frereana Resin

Frankincense Frereana Resins
by Nila Aromatherapy

Frankincense Frereana is a beautiful resin that is different from other Frankincense resins.

It has a lovely, sweet, honey undertone and contains a high amount of alpha-pinene and alpha-thujene, both which are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Because of its pure oleoresin content and lack of water soluble gum, this makes Frankincense Frereana resin the best resin for skincare. When infused in a carrier oil, it melts easily, making it excellent when used in balms, natural skincare products and natural perfumes.

When used as incense in a burner, Frankincense Frereana produces an intoxicating aroma that is both beautiful and calming.

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4. Myrrh Resin

Myrrh Resins
by Nila Aromatherapy

Myrrh is one of the most famous oleo-resins, valued for its medicinal applications and spiritual significance throughout history. Historically, Myrrh has been used in religious rituals, embalming practices and medicinal remedies.

Myrrh's distinct aroma is said to evoke feelings of grounding and inner peace, making it a popular choice for aromatherapy when it is burned or added to a herbal incense blend.

Myrrh resin has strong antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties, and is especially useful as a natural remedy for oral care. This makes Myrrh very effective for treating dental problems such as gum infections. It is also suitable for easing coughs, colds, congestion, sore throat; for stimulating digestion and appetite; and for treating cuts or fungal infections.

Despite its many benefits, it is important to use Myrrh resins mindfully and in moderation as it is a powerful resin. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also avoid using Myrrh as there is limited research on its safety during pregnancy.

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Conclusion

The ancient wisdom of Frankincense and Myrrh resins continues to enchant and inspire us today, and their widespread use in aromatherapy practice and holistic health remedies is testament to their timeless appeal.

When burned as incense, these resins fill the air with their grounding and intoxicating aroma, fostering an atmosphere of tranquility and enhancing spiritual connection. When infused in oils or used to create balms and natural perfumes, they provide nourishment and healing to our skin, while also offering relief from aches and pains, as well as soothing and comforting our soul. In every application, Frankincense and Myrrh resins invite us to reconnect with ancient traditions and embrace the power of nature's healing gifts.

If you are excited to explore more, Nila Singapore offers the best range of premium quality Frankincense and Myrrh resins in Singapore. All our resins are sustainably sourced from around the globe, providing you with the best resins for your aromatherapy journey.

Are you ready to start your aromatic adventure? Click here to explore our curated collection of resins and accessories today!

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4 Easy Ways To Use Frankincense and Myrrh Resins