What is the purpose of frankincense?

Frankincense is a hardened gum-like material (resin) that comes from the trunk of the Boswellia tree. People use its oil on the skin and in aromatherapy. Frankincense oil seems to kill some types of bacteria and fungi (yeasts). It is commonly used as a fragrance in soaps, lotions, and perfumes.

What is the purpose of frankincense and myrrh?

In TCM, frankincense and myrrh are both traditional remedies for promoting blood circulation and removing blood stasis. They often appear in the same prescription in the form of drug pairs. They usually have stronger synergistic effects than single medicines.

Where did myrrh come from?

Myrrh is a reddish resin that comes from species of the genus Commiphora, which are native to northeast Africa and the adjacent areas of the Arabian Peninsula. Commiphora myrrha, a tree commonly used in the production of myrrh, can be found in the shallow, rocky soils of Ethiopia, Kenya, Oman, Saudi Arabia and Somalia.

What is the difference between myrrh and frankincense?

Frankincense and myrrh are both resins extracted from trees in the Burseraceae family, also known as the torchwood or incense family. Frankincense comes from the dried sap of Boswellia trees, while myrrh comes from the lifeblood of the Commiphora.

What does myrrh symbolize?

THERE ARE two traditions. The first, referred to in the carol ‘We Three Kings’, interprets the gifts as symbolising three aspects of Christ’s future life: gold representing kingship, frankincense (worship) and myrrh (death and mourning).

What is myrrh Christmas?

Frankincense and Myrrh are oils derived from tree resin. Traditionally associated with Christmas as, along with Gold, they were the treasured gifts brought by the Magi to Jesus Christ as described in the Christian Bible.

What is the meaning behind the gift of myrrh?

Symbolic meaning: In the New Testament, myrrh is usually associated with embalming and burial because of its preservative qualities (see John 19:39–40).