Historical Uses of Frankincense Extracts
Frankincense Extracts has been used for thousands of years across many cultures for its medicinal properties. Derived from the Boswellia sacra tree native to regions of the Arabian Peninsula, references to frankincense date back as early as 1500 BC in ancient Egyptian texts. It was a highly valued commodity used extensively in religious ceremonies and as a perfume throughout the Mediterranean world. Various historical documents describe frankincense being used topically to treat skin conditions as well as consumed orally to aid in digestion and soothe upset stomachs.
Chemical Composition
The active components in frankincense that provide its therapeutic effects are terpenoid compounds called boswellic acids. Over 30 different boswellic acid variants have been identified in frankincense resin. The four primary boswellic acids are acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), β-boswellic acid (BBA), 11-keto-β-boswellic acid (KBA) and 3-O-acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKB). Boswellic acids are what give frankincense its distinct fragrance and are the key to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Mechanism of Action
Studies into the Frankincense Extracts of action have shown boswellic acids are anti-inflammatory by inhibiting the 5-lipoxygenase (5-LOX) and leukotriene biosynthesis pathway. 5-LOX is an enzyme involved in the production of leukotrienes, which are inflammatory mediators. By reducing leukotriene biosynthesis, frankincense helps curb excessive inflammatory responses and promotes resolution. It also suppresses the activation of pro-inflammatory nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB), reducing levels of cytokines like tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin 1-beta (IL-1β).
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