What is the traditional use of frankincense?
Ancient civilizations viewed frankincense as one of the most valuable commodities in the world. Proponents used this aromatic resin as incense and to treat various ills.IdentificationFrankincense oozes from slits made in the bark of the Boswellia tree. This white resin hardens when exposed to air, forming into tiny tear-like clumps.FunctionDuring ancient religious rites, priests burned frankincense to ward off evil forces as well as mixing it with oil for anointing purposes. Romans and Greeks added the aromatic resin to their hearths while Egyptians ground it into a black eyeliner to adorn their art. Christians adopted frankincense as incense for their religious services.BenefitsIn the first century, Pliny the Elder used frankincense as an antidote for hemlock poisoning. In the 10th century, Avicenna, a foremost Iranian physician, treated various ills including tumors, vomiting, dysentery and fever. Traditional Chinese medicine prescribed it to treat leprosy, cancer and gonorrhea.Consi
