Frankincense (Or Olibanum) Boswellia Thurifera
This natural essence is made from the gum of the tree which results in tear shaped blobs of hardened gum when it comes in contact with the air. Frankincense is spicy and with camphor undertones and can become somewhat lemon like when mixed with myrrh. Frankincense is a famous fragrance in Christianity where the three kings offered Frankincense to Jesus on his birth.
Frankincense has an uplifting effect and helps to increase concentration. It can also be used to treat bronchitis, coughs, colds and laryngitis. It is also known to have beneficial effects on the skin, reducing wrinkles. Frankincense can be used by inhalation, massage or an aromatherapy bath. Inhalation works particularly well for catarrh and the bath is the perfect medium for relaxing. It blends well with Myrrh, Basil or Sandalwood.
There are a variety of herbs that can be uplifting, refreshing and stimulating in aromatherapy use. The most famous of which is peppermint. Peppermint is commonly used in herbal infusions for a refreshing and invigorating tea drink. The Egyptians used Peppermint to flavour food and wine and highly valued its menthol content. Culpeper recorded Peppermint as highly useful against stomach complaints including wind and vomiting. Peppermint essential oil is distilled from the whole of the plant and is almost completely clear in appearance. Peppermint oil is a British classic that has spread almost worldwide and is very expensive to obtain. Peppermint oil is also highly concentrated and has a very powerful aroma. Peppermint is excellent for both the digestive system and as a decongestant. It can also be used for skin disorders, colds, flu, flatulence, headaches, toothache and sunburn. Many confections such as mints or chewing gum are peppermint flavoured; herbal migraine sticks contain the active ingredient of peppermint. Peppermint can also be used to make cafe syrups, cosmetics, body lotions, hair products, herbal cigarettes, sweets, herbal teas and more. Peppermint is strongly associated with refreshing and clean sensations as well as opening up the airways.
Peppermint essential oils can be used by inhalation, baths or massage. Peppermint oil is also used in gripe water to settle upset stomachs and inhalation through a handkerchief can help alleviate headaches and travel sickness. It also makes a refreshing and cooling skin tonic or bath oil during the summer. Peppermint is very potent so its advised not to use concentrations above 1% as it can otherwise cause irritation.
