Frankincense and myrrh can be ingested with caution, but only in controlled, therapeutic doses under expert guidance due to potential side effects.
The Origins and Historical Use of Frankincense and Myrrh
Frankincense and myrrh are two of the oldest aromatic resins known to humanity. Harvested from the Boswellia and Commiphora tree species respectively, these resins have been traded and treasured for thousands of years. Their use spans ancient religious ceremonies, traditional medicine, and even embalming practices in Egyptian culture.
Both frankincense and myrrh were prized commodities along the ancient spice routes. They were often gifted to royalty or used as offerings to deities. Beyond their fragrant qualities, these resins held a reputation for healing properties. Ancient texts from Ayurveda, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and Biblical references all mention their therapeutic potential.
The question “Can You Ingest Frankincense And Myrrh?” ties directly into this rich history but demands a modern understanding of safety, dosage, and efficacy.
Chemical Composition: What Makes Frankincense and Myrrh Special?
The unique properties of frankincense and myrrh come from their complex chemical profiles. These resins contain a mixture of volatile oils, terpenes, acids, and other bioactive compounds that contribute to their aroma and medicinal effects.
- Frankincense: Contains boswellic acids, alpha-pinene, incensole acetate, and various sesquiterpenes.
- Myrrh: Rich in sesquiterpenes like curzerene, furanoeudesma-1,3-diene, and commiphoric acids.
Boswellic acids in frankincense have been studied for anti-inflammatory properties. Similarly, compounds in myrrh exhibit antimicrobial and analgesic effects. These chemical constituents explain why both resins have traditionally been used to treat inflammation, infections, and pain.
Traditional Ingestion Practices
Historically, frankincense and myrrh were sometimes consumed orally but rarely in large quantities or without preparation. Ancient healers would often grind the resin into powders or infuse it into teas or tinctures for medicinal use.
In Ayurvedic medicine, frankincense (known as “dhoop”) was occasionally taken internally to aid digestion or respiratory health. Myrrh was used similarly as a digestive tonic or antiseptic mouth rinse. However, these uses always came with caution due to the potency of the substances.
Today’s herbalists sometimes recommend small doses of frankincense or myrrh extracts in supplement form for joint health or oral care. But raw resin ingestion is uncommon because it can be harsh on the digestive system.
Modern Science on Ingesting Frankincense and Myrrh
Recent clinical studies have investigated the potential benefits of consuming frankincense and myrrh extracts under controlled conditions:
| Substance | Studied Benefits | Potential Risks |
|---|---|---|
| Frankincense (Boswellia serrata) | Anti-inflammatory effects for arthritis; improved digestion; respiratory relief | Gastrointestinal upset; allergic reactions; interactions with blood thinners |
| Myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) | Antimicrobial action; oral health improvement; wound healing support | Mouth irritation; toxicity at high doses; possible uterine contractions in pregnancy |
Both substances show promise as natural anti-inflammatory agents when ingested properly. However, dosing is critical—overconsumption may lead to nausea, diarrhea, or more severe complications.
Dosing Guidelines in Supplements
Standardized extracts of boswellic acids are typically dosed between 300-500 mg two to three times daily for arthritis relief. Myrrh supplements are less standardized but usually recommended at low doses around 200-400 mg per day.
These doses are far lower than what raw resin ingestion would provide. The concentrated extracts allow safer consumption with monitored purity.
Health Risks Associated With Oral Consumption
Despite their natural origins, frankincense and myrrh are not inherently safe at all doses. Several risks exist:
- Gastrointestinal Distress: Both resins can irritate the stomach lining causing cramps or diarrhea.
- Allergic Reactions: Sensitive individuals may develop rashes or respiratory symptoms.
- Drug Interactions: Boswellic acids may interfere with blood-thinning medications like warfarin.
- Toxicity Concerns: Excessive myrrh intake has been linked to uterine contractions—dangerous during pregnancy.
Because of these risks, self-medicating with raw frankincense or myrrh resin is strongly discouraged without professional supervision.
The Role of Quality Control and Purity
One major challenge when ingesting frankincense or myrrh lies in product quality. Raw resins vary widely depending on harvest location, processing methods, storage conditions, and possible contamination.
Impurities such as dust particles or adulterants may cause adverse reactions if consumed directly. Therefore:
- Select only pharmaceutical-grade extracts verified by third-party testing.
- Avoid homemade tinctures unless prepared by an experienced herbalist.
- Consult labels carefully to ensure correct species identification (Boswellia serrata vs Boswellia carterii).
Reliable sourcing minimizes risks related to ingestion.
The Difference Between Aromatic Use vs Internal Consumption
Most people recognize frankincense and myrrh as incense materials used for burning rather than eating. The aromatic use involves inhaling vapors released by slow combustion—this is vastly different from swallowing resin or its extracts.
Inhaling essential oils derived from these resins also carries risks if done improperly but generally involves lower systemic exposure than oral ingestion.
This distinction matters because many believe that if something smells safe enough to burn indoors or apply topically it must be safe internally—this is not true here.
Aromatherapy vs Oral Supplementation:
- Aromatherapy: Uses diffusers or topical application diluted with carrier oils for mood enhancement or minor skin issues.
- Oral Supplementation: Requires standardized extract capsules with known dosages targeting specific health concerns like inflammation.
Confusing these uses can lead to accidental overdoses or misuse.
The Science Behind Frankincense’s Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Multiple studies demonstrate boswellic acids inhibit enzymes like 5-lipoxygenase involved in inflammation pathways. This biochemical action reduces swelling and pain associated with arthritis conditions such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.
Clinical trials have reported improvements in joint mobility after several weeks of boswellia supplementation compared to placebo groups. The mechanism also extends potential benefits toward asthma relief by calming airway inflammation.
However, bioavailability—the degree to which boswellic acids enter systemic circulation—is relatively low when taken orally unless formulated carefully (e.g., with phospholipids).
The Antimicrobial Potential of Myrrh When Taken Orally
Myrrh contains compounds that disrupt bacterial cell membranes leading to antimicrobial activity against pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus or Candida albicans.
Traditionally used as a mouth rinse ingredient for gum infections or sore throats, oral ingestion aims at systemic infection control but requires caution due to toxicity risks at higher doses.
Research supports its role as an adjunctive therapy rather than standalone antibiotic replacement. Controlled dosing helps harness benefits while minimizing side effects such as mucosal irritation.
A Balanced View on Can You Ingest Frankincense And Myrrh?
Yes—but only under strict guidelines:
- The dose must be carefully measured.
- The source must be pure and verified.
- You should avoid self-treatment without professional advice.
These precautions ensure you benefit from their ancient healing power without unintended harm.
Key Takeaways: Can You Ingest Frankincense And Myrrh?
➤ Frankincense is generally safe when taken in small amounts.
➤ Myrrh may cause side effects if consumed excessively.
➤ Consult a healthcare provider before ingesting either resin.
➤ Both have traditional uses but limited clinical evidence.
➤ Avoid during pregnancy unless advised by a doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Ingest Frankincense And Myrrh Safely?
Yes, you can ingest frankincense and myrrh, but only in controlled, therapeutic doses under expert supervision. Improper use may cause side effects due to their potent chemical compounds.
Can You Ingest Frankincense And Myrrh for Health Benefits?
Both resins have been traditionally used to treat inflammation, infections, and pain. When ingested carefully, they may support digestion and respiratory health, but always consult a healthcare professional first.
Can You Ingest Frankincense And Myrrh in Traditional Medicine?
Historically, frankincense and myrrh were consumed as powders or infusions in teas and tinctures. Ancient practices used them cautiously for digestive and antiseptic purposes.
Can You Ingest Frankincense And Myrrh Without Side Effects?
Ingesting these resins without proper guidance can lead to adverse effects. Their bioactive compounds are powerful, so dosage control is essential to avoid toxicity or allergic reactions.
Can You Ingest Frankincense And Myrrh as Supplements Today?
Modern herbalists sometimes recommend small doses of frankincense or myrrh extracts as supplements. However, it is important to follow expert advice and use standardized products to ensure safety.
Conclusion – Can You Ingest Frankincense And Myrrh?
Ingesting frankincense and myrrh is possible but demands respect for their potency. Both offer valuable anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits validated by science when consumed correctly through standardized supplements rather than raw resin chewing or unregulated homemade preparations.
Their long history confirms traditional use alongside modern research emphasizing safety first: controlled dosage tailored by healthcare professionals remains essential before incorporating these ancient remedies into your regimen.
So yes—frankincense and myrrh can be ingested—but only wisely!