Frankincense tears form from the resin or sap of Boswellia carteri. The bark is cut and the sap which begins to eventually flow once exposed to air becomes hard and brittle, forming bitter tasting golden beads called tears. Frankincense tears can be ground into a powder or used in their granular form. The tears are often smoldered on charcoal as an incense or its powder form can be sprinkled on charcoal discs or candles. The powdered form can be added to soaps and other toiletries to obtain the healing benefits of frankincense. The aroma of frankincense is warm, woody, sweet and spicy. Frankincense has been used since ancient times in religious ceremonies, is still used in many churches today and was one of the three gifts from the Magi to the infant Jesus. Dioscorides mentions the therapeutic use of the gum to treat skin disorders. Ambroise Pare, a 16th century surgeon, treated soldiers’ wounds and noted that it stopped bleeding and helped scar tissue to form quickly. Frankincense slows down breathing and produces feelings of calm. Its comforting and refreshing action is helpful for anxious and obsessional states linked to the past.

Medicinal Action and Uses
It is stimulant, but seldom used now internally, though formerly was in great repute. Pliny mentions it as an antidote to hemlock. Avicenna (tenth century) recommends it for tumours, ulcers, vomiting, dysentery and fevers. In China it is used for leprosy.

Its principal use now is in the manufacture of incense and pastilles. It is also used in plasters and might be substituted for Balsam of Peru or Balsam or Tolu. The inhalation of steam laden with the volatile portion of the drug is said to relieve bronchitis and laryngitis.

Other uses for frankincense tears are: meditation, protection, purification, consecration, to cleanse space and drive away negative influences.

Read More About It
The Complete Book of Incense, Oils & Brews by Scott Cunningham.