Frankincense and myrrh have long been touted for their powerful healing and protective abilities. For example, both materials have a connection to Christianity; they were both gifts brought to Bethlehem by the Magi. They have also been used across a wide range of cultures in ancient times; in Egypt, incense was used as eyeliner, not only to enhance beauty, but also to provide protection to their eyes. The Greek physician Hippocrates wrote extensively about myrrh, and frankincense and myrrh have been heavily traded for thousands of years.(1)
Today, both continue to prove effective, particularly in the cure of certain cancers.
Incense against cancer
Researchers at the University of Leicester say frankincense contains a chemical compound that has the potential to kill cancer cells and may be a viable treatment for cancers such as breast, prostate, ovarian and colon cancers. This particular compound is acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA); it has been studied extensively by experts who have demonstrated its ability to fight ovarian cancer cells, even in the terminal phase(2).
"After a year of studying the AKBA compound with varieties of ovarian cancer cells in vitro, we were able to show that it is effective in killing cancer cells," said Kamla Al-Salmani, a university student in the Department of Molecular Medicine. "Incense is taken by many people with no known side effects. Even more promising is their finding that AKBA is effective even on cancer cells that have been resistant to chemotherapy. Dr. Mark Evans says: "It may, in fact, be able to overcome drug resistance and increases survival rates for patients with advanced ovarian cancer." (2)
Myrrh, incense and other combinations that can help healing
The myrrh also has been shown to improve health. Used as an essential oil, it is said to be able to cure skin problems such as athlete's foot andeczema ; it also helps with wound healing, strengthening of the gums and respiratory problems. (3,4) In addition, a study published in the "Journal of Food Safety, Nutrition and Public Health" shows that myrrh has a cholesterol-lowering ability. A combination of frankincense and myrrh is also beneficial to health; the "National Association for Holistic Aromatherapy" suggests that along with cardamom and cinnamon, they can dispel stomach aches, fight bad breath, and relieve dental pain.
(5)
The combination of myrrh and turmeric (turmeric), having a great protective effect, is an excellent cellular detoxifier and reduces lead toxicity. This study was published in "Basic & Clinical Pharmacology & Toxicology" and undertaken by researchers at Alexandria University, Egypt. (6)
While the benefits of frankincense and myrrh are numerous, it should be noted that their oils (like all essential oils) are potent and, as such, careful consideration of dilution for ingestion and topical application should be conducted. Ideally, only quality therapeutic essential oils should be used. Talk to a naturopathic doctor before using them to ensure that it is safe to do so.
Using these oils in a diffuser allows you to reap the benefits safely.
Sources:
(2) http://www.universityherald.com
(3) http://www.thealternativedaily.com