Can You Eat Frankincense Resin?
Yes, certain grades of frankincense resin are edible and have been consumed for thousands of years in parts of Africa, the Middle East, and India. The practice is deeply rooted in traditional medicine, such as Ayurveda, and involves chewing the raw resin or preparing it as a drink. The resin is tapped from trees of the Boswellia genus, and its edibility depends on the species and the resin's purity. Not all frankincense is created equal, and consuming the wrong type or form, such as highly concentrated essential oils, can be dangerous.
Edible Grades and Types of Frankincense
To ensure safety, it is essential to distinguish between the different species and grades of frankincense. The quality and safety for consumption can vary significantly based on origin and harvesting methods.
Boswellia Sacra (Oman)
Considered one of the finest and most potent varieties, Omani frankincense, particularly the high-grade Hojari variety, is known for its clarity and soft, greenish tint. It is traditionally chewed like gum and soaked in water to create a healthful drink.
Boswellia Serrata (India)
Known as Indian frankincense, this variety is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. It is often processed into supplements containing concentrated extracts of boswellic acids for internal use.
Boswellia Carterii (Somalia)
This variety, also known as Arabian frankincense, is frequently used for incense, but higher purity grades can be found for chewing or steeping. Its quality depends heavily on the harvesting process and whether it's kept pure from contaminants.
Frankincense Frereana (Somalia)
Often called 'Maydi' or 'Top-Grade Chewing Frankincense,' this resin is specifically harvested for chewing and has a distinct citrus and balsamic flavor. It is highly valued locally for its taste and properties.
How to Safely Consume Frankincense
For those interested in exploring edible frankincense, safe consumption methods focus on the raw resin, not the essential oil. Essential oils are extremely concentrated and not intended for oral ingestion unless under expert guidance and with food-grade certification.
- Frankincense Water: Soak a few pieces of high-grade resin in a glass of water overnight. The water will turn cloudy or milky white. Drink the water in the morning on an empty stomach.
- Chewing: Chew a small, clean 'tear' of edible-grade resin. It will soften over time, similar to gum. This method is traditional for improving oral hygiene and digestion.
- Supplements: For a standardized dosage, look for reputable frankincense extract capsules. These are most commonly made from Boswellia serrata and contain concentrated boswellic acids for targeted benefits.
The Difference: Edible Resin vs. Essential Oil
This table outlines the crucial differences between consuming frankincense resin and its essential oil.
| Feature | Edible Frankincense Resin | Frankincense Essential Oil |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Oleogum resin containing water-soluble gum, essential oils, and boswellic acids. | Highly concentrated volatile compounds distilled from the resin. |
| Active Compounds | Contains boswellic acids, which are largely responsible for the anti-inflammatory effects. | Does not contain boswellic acids, as they are not extracted during distillation. |
| Safety for Ingestion | Safe for internal use when using high-quality, pure, food-grade varieties in moderation. | Dangerous to ingest and can cause damage to mucous membranes and the liver. |
| Primary Use | Traditional remedy for digestion, inflammation, and oral health. | Aromatherapy and topical applications, highly diluted. |
| Taste | Mildly sweet, citrusy, and minty, especially with premium grades. | Very strong, concentrated, and irritating if ingested. |
Potential Health Benefits of Edible Frankincense
Research into the health effects of frankincense has focused on its anti-inflammatory properties, mainly from the boswellic acids found in the resin. Potential benefits include:
- Digestive Support: Can soothe the gut lining and aid in treating conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).
- Anti-inflammatory Effects: May help reduce inflammation associated with conditions like arthritis, rheumatism, and asthma.
- Oral Health: Chewing the resin can help strengthen gums and protect against oral infections due to its antibacterial properties.
- Immune System Support: Some traditional practices suggest it can boost immunity.
- Antioxidant Properties: The resin is rich in antioxidants that protect against cellular damage from free radicals.
Precautions and Considerations
While edible frankincense is generally safe for most people in moderation, it is not without risks. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid internal consumption, as its effects on these populations are not well-studied. Frankincense may also interact with certain medications, including blood thinners and NSAIDs, so always consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions. High doses can lead to side effects such as nausea, indigestion, and diarrhea.
Conclusion
Frankincense is indeed edible, but only specific, high-quality resin grades from species like Boswellia sacra and Boswellia serrata are suitable for consumption. It's vital to differentiate between safe, edible resin and dangerous essential oils. Used for centuries in traditional medicine, edible frankincense offers potential benefits for digestive health, inflammation, and oral hygiene, but it should be consumed with caution and after consulting a medical professional, particularly for pregnant individuals or those on medication. Ensuring you source a food-grade product from a reputable supplier is the most important step for safe consumption.
Learn more about the differences between resin and essential oil.
