Spiritual Properties of Frankincense & Myrrh

Frankincense and myrrh have long been thought to have spiritual properties. Perhaps the most famous reference to these substances is in the Bible, where they were offered as gifts to the infant Jesus. Both of these tree-sap resins have been used since before Jesus' time for spiritual purposes, and most commonly in incense form. They are still widely used today by many religions and cultures.

Frankincense resin is commonly used to make incense, which is then burned for spiritual purposes. The scent is thought to induce meditative states, reduce tension and stress, and also to lift the spirit. Frankincense is native to the Mideast and Northern Africa and has been in use by the people of those regions for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians burned frankincense as an offering to their god, Ra. Ancient Babylonians and Assyrians also used incense during religious rituals. Jewish and Catholic rites throughout the ages have also involved the use of frankincense. Frankincense is also thought to help you detach from thoughts and desires, which is beneficial to the highest self.

Myrrh is native to the Middle East, Northern Africa and India. Like Frankincense, it has been used in spiritual and religious ceremonies for thousands of years. The ancient Egyptians burned it as an offering to Ra, the sun god. They also used it for embalming so it could accompany a soul to the afterlife, and because it was thought to have antibacterial properties. Myrrh is thought to unite heaven and Earth by awakening your awareness of the higher self. In Kundalini, it is used to strengthen the bond between the crown (heaven) and base (Earth) chakras. It also helps you stay present and not worry about the future.

Frankincense and myrrh are available as incense, resin or essential oils. Sometimes they are blended together or with other oils. When buying in oil form, check the bottle carefully to be sure the contents contain pure essential oils. The oils can be worn or dabbed onto cloth and sniffed. Some varieties are made for use in fragrance oil burners. When purchasing as incense, be sure to buy quality incense made from the actual resins of frankincense or myrrh; otherwise, the spiritual properties of the incense may be diminished or not noticed at all, if made from artificial ingredients. Many holistic stores carry quality incense and oils.