Gold, Frankincense and Myrrh

I was so happy when I came across an article about the medicinal uses of frankincense in this mornings' paper.  The article was published in Medical News Today, a traditional source of medical news (ie pharmaceutical news).  That's part of what made me happy.  A traditional news source touting the health benefits of a NATURAL ingredient.....be still my heart.

It seems that a German health team discoverd the exceptional benefits of frankincense for its anti-inflammatory properties.  It appears to be a great help for patients with rheumatoid arthritis, asthma and atopic dermatitis.

Boswellic acids, from boswellia resin, interact with an enzyme responsible for the synthesis of prostaglandin E2.   PGE2 is responsible for fever, pain and inflammation.  Boswellic acid effeciently blocks this enzyme and reduces the inflammatory process.  This is great news, especially for patients with rheumatiod arthritis since the traditional medicines have the side-effect of DEATH! 

There are 10, or so, known Boswellia species in the world.  The resin of the Boswellia papyrifera is the most potent, by far.  (10 times more potent than the other species.)

So, my take home points would be:
1)  buy a boswellia tree and plant it.  (seriously, plant a tree)
2)  buy a therapeutic-grade frankincense essential oil and use it.  This stuff is not inexpensive, but it is awesome.  I use Young Living's frankincense because it is organic and certified 'therapeutic grade'.

If you'd like tips on how to use the frankincense oil, just let me know. 

Thank you.