Olibanum oil has many uses, notably for spiritual purposes, perfumes, and aromatherapy. It’s also used in skin care and other areas.
Olibanum oil is an essential oil. It’s extracted from resinous oils from trees of the Boswellia genus.
Oil from these trees is also called frankincense oil. Frankincense is a more common name in the Western world, though in the East, near its native regions, olibanum is another common name.
Let’s examine olibanum oil’s past and present health effects, how to use it, and what research says about it.
Olibanum essential oil has various health claims, many of which come from alternative medicine and traditional healing practices in its native regions.
In Asia, olibanum was once used as an antimicrobial and “blood cleanser.” People still use these folk remedies today.
The commercially produced essential oil claims topical uses for skin care and health in the West. Some people even claim it’s a treatment for cancer or inflammatory diseases, but these claims may lack proof.
Olibanum was originally and religiously used as incense. It’s still used for aromatherapy today. Essential oils are still used in aromatherapy. People may diffuse them, dilute them in a carrier oil, apply them to the skin, or add them to a bath.
Learn more about frankincense and cancer.
Anti-inflammatory
Olibanum oil was historically used most often as a medicine to soothe inflammation, and modern medicine
Alternative practitioners may use or recommend it for either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. Topical creams containing olibanum oil are also available for inflammatory issues like arthritis.
How to use
You can topically dilute essential oil to treat pain and inflammation in unbroken skin. You should dilute essential oils before application. Dilute every 1 drop of essential oil with 1 ounce of carrier oil.
Don’t take olibanum essential oils internally.
Learn more about essential oils and arthritis.
Antimicrobial
One of olibanum’s oldest uses is as a wound healer.
A 2023 study showed that this was effective due to its antimicrobial properties. It can kill bacteria and other microbes that might cause infection or illness. However, more research is necessary on people rather than isolated cells in a laboratory.
How to use
You can dilute olibanum essential oil (or frankincense essential oil) with a carrier oil and use it lightly as an antiseptic for minor wounds. Dilute 1 drop in every 1 ounce of carrier oil, such as coconut or sweet almond oil.
If your infection worsens, talk with your doctor. Before using olibanum oil, discuss with your doctor whether it is a good option.
Heart health
Laboratory
Further studies on humans are necessary, however.
How to use
Apply diluted essential oils topically, 1 to 3 drops per 1 ounce of carrier oil. Apply to points like the neck or wrists daily. Ask your doctor for possible oral supplements or extracts from a reputable source.
Liver health
Olibanum’s oil’s antioxidant effects could help protect liver cells. A 2024 study found that frankincense extract inhibited the movement and invasion of liver cancer cells induced in rats. However, as this study uses animals, further research on humans is necessary.
How to use
Apply diluted essential oils topically, one drop per 1 ounce of carrier oil. Apply to points like the neck or wrists daily. Ask your doctor for possible oral supplements or extracts from a reputable source.
Olibanum oil should be safe to use if used correctly. However, internal use of essential oils has uncertain and potentially adverse health risks and can be toxic. Always dilute any essential oil with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin.
Do not swallow essential oils. Be sure to check with your doctor before starting any supplements.
When diluted with a carrier oil, topical use of olibanum essential oil poses little to no health risks. Never apply undiluted essential oils to the skin, which may cause burns, inflammation, or unwanted skin reactions.
Discontinue the use of any olibanum product and talk with your doctor if you experience some or all of the following side effects:
These are possible side effects of the botanical or could be a sign you’re allergic to olibanum.
Even when diluted in oil, topical use poses minor risks, such as allergic reactions or rashes. Patch test with diluted essential oil before using it for any health purpose to avoid side effects and ensure you aren’t allergic.
Interactions with medications are possible. Discuss medications you take with your doctor before using olibanum oil.
Olibanum oil is another common name for frankincense oil. It’s readily available as an essential oil, though you can take it as a supplement or extract for its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Talk with your doctor about whether olibanum oil is right for you. Always ensure you take the oil safely and correctly and never take the essential oil internally.
Never rely solely on olibanum essential oil to treat any specific condition.