The Grounding Benefits of Frankincense Essential Oil

Reviewed by ACHS Dean of Aromatherapy, Amanda Lattin.

Frankincense essential oil (Boswellia carterii) has long been celebrated for its rich aroma, deep cultural history, and its ability to create a sense of grounding and presence. It often held a place in traditional practices, from spiritual ceremonies to aromatic rituals, where its warm, balsamic notes help create a calm, reflective atmosphere.

 

Aromatics That Encourage Centering

Frankincense essential oil’s earthy, resinous, and subtly sweet aroma has long been used to cultivate peaceful, mindful environments, from meditation and journaling to evening wind-down routines. It can be diffused alone or blended with complementary oils such as cedarwood, sandalwood, or lavender to encourage deep breathing and emotional steadiness. 

 

Three Aromatic Recipes Featuring Frankincense Essential Oil

1. Grounding Frankincense Room Diffuser Blend

This warm, resinous blend is a perfect companion for meditation, journaling, or evening relaxation.

Ingredients:

• 3 drops Frankincense essential oil (Boswellia carterii)

• 2 drops Atlas Cedarwood essential oil (Cedrus atlantica ct. Himachalenes)

• 1 drop Sweet Orange essential oil (Citrus sinensis)

• Water for your diffuser
  
  

Directions:

1. Fill your diffuser with water according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Add the essential oils.

3. Diffuse during quiet moments to create a steady, grounding atmosphere.

 

2. Frankincense & Vanilla Aromatic Roll-On

A beautifully balanced, earthy-sweet blend that can create a centering aromatic experience on the go.

Ingredients:

• 10 ml roller bottle

• 2–3 drops Frankincense essential oil (Boswellia carterii)

• 1 drop Benzoin Resinoid (Styrax tonkinensis)

• Carrier oil of choice (jojoba, sweet almond, etc.)
  
  

Directions:

1. Add the essential oils to the roller bottle.

2. Fill the rest of the bottle with your chosen carrier oil.

3. Cap and roll between your hands to blend.

4. Apply to pulse points such as wrists, neck, inner elbows, or behind the ears.

Tip: Start with fewer drops for a lighter scent, and adjust according to your preference.

3. Cozy Frankincense Linen & Pillow Mist

A calming aromatic spray that brings steadiness to your bedtime routine.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz distilled water

• 30 ml witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) or vodka (to help disperse the oils)

• 4 drops Frankincense essential oil (Boswellia carterii)

• 2 drops Lavender essential oil (Lavandula angustifolia)

• 1 drop Bergamot essential oil (Citrus aurantium var. bergamia)
  

Directions:

1. Add the witch hazel or vodka to a 2–3 oz glass spray bottle.

2. Add the essential oils and swirl gently to combine.

3. Pour in the distilled water and shake well.

4. Lightly mist linens, pillows, or your space before rest or reflection.

Tip: Shake before each use, as natural separation may occur.

 

Bring Frankincense Into Your Routine

If you're exploring ways to cultivate more mindfulness and presence in your daily life, frankincense essential oil is a wonderful starting point. Its deep, grounding aroma invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and reconnect with what matters most.

Learn more ways to incorporate essential oils in your daily life with AROMA 101 Introduction to Aromatherapy, offered by American College of Healthcare Sciences.

This content is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be medical advice. Always use herbs and essential oils with caution and keep out of reach of children. Use particular caution when pregnant or nursing. Always check contraindications and think safety first! The statements herein have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease.