Herbs of Christmas - Frankincense and Myrrh

Frankincense and Myrrh and the Christmas story:

Gold, frankincense, and myrrh were the first gifts the Magi brought for Jesus after His birth. Gold was precious even in biblical times and symbolizes Jesus' divinity and kingship. Frankincense was often used as an offering in worship to God and is a symbol of holiness and righteousness, it is symbolic of Jesus becoming a sacrificial offering Himself.

Myrhh was often used in embalming, as a spice, and mixed into wine; it symbolizes suffering. The gift of myrrh signifies the suffering Jesus will endure on the cross.

Frankincense and Myrrh - what are they?

While they are not an herb, they are the most closely related plant product to Christmas. Frankincense is a fragrant resin from the following trees: Boswellia sacra, B. frereana, B. papyrifera, B. serrata; it is harvested by making incisions into the bark of the lower trunk. Myrrh is a naturally occurring resin from the Commiphora myrrha tree.

Frankincense today - Therapeutic uses.

Today we use frankincense essential oils for various medicinal and therapeutic outcomes. Frankincense's therapeutic actions include anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antiseptic, digestive, disinfectant, diuretic, and sedative. Frankincense is often medicinally used for stress and anxiety, bloating, hair and skin care, respiratory support, and inflammation. Boswellia serrata is frequently used to manage arthritis pain. Frankincense is generally considered safe for use.

Myrrh today - Therapeutic uses.

Myrrh is also commonly used as an essential oil today. its therapeutic actions include being antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiseptic, antiviral, expectorant, fungicidal, and sedative. Myrrh is medicinally used for anti-aging, athletes' foot, bronchitis, dental health, muscle pain, stretch marks, wound care, diarrhea, and hemorrhoids. Myrrh should not be used when pregnant or breastfeeding.

How do essential oils fit into herbalism?

Essential oils can be found in all herbs, some herbs have higher concentrations than others; they are obtained by distillation or solvent extraction. Essential oils are a product of the plant's metabolism made of different chemicals, such as terpenes, esters,

aldehydes, oxides, alcohols, ketones, and phenols; each has a different action on the body.

Frankincense Salve

***These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your doctor before starting any supplements***