The aromatic resin of the Boswellia tree, frankincense, is heralded as one of the three gifts given to baby Jesus, along with myrrh (another resin), and gold.  Both frankincense and myrrh were valued equally, if not more, than gold.  Frankincencse's traditional use in religious and cultural ceremonies, however, extends back even further since for thousands of years, frankincense been traded throughout India, North Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula.

Its fragrant fumes, when wafted about or burned in a diffuser are associated with purification and confer a spiritually uplifting energy to its use in ceremonies, including meditation. This uplifting effect is believed to be due to regulation of certain emotional responses in the brain by constituents in the resin that are released during burning. (Science has demonstrated that this occurs via activation of specific receptor channels that reduce anxiety and provide antidepressive effects – a biological explanation for a deeply rooted tradition!)

Frankincense also offers many therapeutic properties: The oil provides anti-inflammatory relief when massaged onto arthritic joints; it can be used to help heal wounds and treat scars; and, it's a powerful immunostimulant.  Its 'psycho-aromatherapy' qualities of alleviating anxiety and nervous tension are also extremely helpful.