Frankincense is a resin with a history in traditional medicine. People use it to help manage arthritis, asthma, and other health conditions. However, many claims are not yet supported by high quality evidence from human studies.

Frankincense, also known as olibanum, comes from the resin of Boswellia trees, which grow in parts of India, Africa, and the Middle East. The resin is harvested, dried, and processed into essential oils, extracts, and supplements.

Frankincense contains active compounds called boswellic acids. These compounds may reduce inflammation in the body by reducing the production of leukotrienes, molecules that promote inflammation.

We look at some potential benefits of frankincense.

It’s possible frankincense has anti-inflammatory effects that could help improve arthritis symptoms.

For example, in a 2019 pilot trial, participants took 169.33 milligrams (mg) of Boswellia extract twice daily for 120 days and reported reductions in inflammation, joint pain, and stiffness in patients with mild to moderate knee osteoarthritis, with no serious side effects.

A 2018 review of trials also found that frankincense may reduce osteoarthritis pain and improve mobility. However, authors note the low quality of many of the studies.

A more recent 2023 trial suggest that topical oily solution containing frankincense extract decreased pain and improved function in people with knee osteoarthritis.

Asthma

Leukotrienes also cause the bronchial muscles to tighten in asthma. Since frankincense may help reduce the production of these molecules, it possibly has a role in reducing asthma symptoms.

Frankincense may also reduce the effect of Th2 cytokines, which can cause inflammation and mucus overproduction in people with asthma.

A 2017 clinical study involving people taking 200 mg of a supplement made from frankincense and the South Asian fruit bael (Aegle marmelos) found that the supplement was more effective than a placebo at reducing mild to moderate asthma symptoms.

However, more research is needed.

Another 2019 trial indicates that Boswellia 250 mg tablets taken daily for 6 months improved symptoms in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

This resin may also be effective at reducing symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

A 2016 study found that Boswellia extract taken daily for 4 weeks improved symptoms in people with mild ulcerative colitis in remission.

However, some evidence does not show frankincense helps IBD.

Cancer

Scientists are also researching the potential benefits of frankincense in reducing the growth of cancer cells.

In one trial of people being treated for brain tumors, 4,500 mg of boswellic acid extract taken each day helped reduce brain edema — an accumulation of fluid in the brain — while also lowering participants’ regular medication dose.

However, more research must be done in humans, and it’s important not to make any changes to cancer treatment without the guidance of your care team.

Frankincense essential oil may help relieve anxiety and feelings of panic.

People sometimes use it in labor for this reason.

A recent 2021 animal study also showed potential for an anti-anxiety and anti-depressive effect.

People take frankincense as an oral supplement in capsule or tablet form, or use it in topical creams.

It’s also available as an essential oil for aromatherapy or topical use. It’s important to dilute this form with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin.

As research is still in the early stages, an optimal dosage of frankincense has not yet been established. It’s also possible that dosage may vary from person to person and depend on the condition.

Doses used in studies are given in a controlled setting, so the dosages and the source of the supplement won’t necessarily match exactly what you use at home.

If you do decide to try frankincense, ask a healthcare professional about a recommended dosage and consider how you source your supplements.

Side effects reported in scientific studies include:

  • indigestion
  • constipation
  • nausea

Some research reports that frankincense may increase the risk of miscarriage.

Frankincense may also interact with some medications, particularly blood thinners like warfarin and possibly nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen.

Before using frankincense, keep in mind that further research is needed to confirm its safety, effectiveness, and interactions with other medications.

Discuss frankincense with your doctor before using it, particularly if you have any conditions, are pregnant, or take certain medications.

While many frankincense products may be safe for some people, research so far is relatively limited. Frankincense can also cause side effects in certain groups, such as pregnant people, as well as people taking certain medications.

As with any supplement, caution is advised if you decide to try frankincense to help improve your health.

It’s best to consult a healthcare professional for tailored advice, as they can take into account your specific circumstances and any health conditions you may have.