Everyone has this dream of traveling to India’s majestic temples because of its finely-detailed wall carvings, flower trails, and most of all the scent of burning frankincense. It is a surreal experience for any Ayurveda enthusiast to experience all of these. Aside from using it in ceremonies, frankincense has medicinal uses that one can benefit from.
Its Latin name is boswellia serata (from the burseraceae family). Its common names are boswellia, frankincense and indian frankincense.
The frankincense comes from the plant, Boswell serata. Boswellia serata produces hardened gum resins and is harvested by tapping the trunk. These gum resins have boswellic acids and it is rich with anti-arthritic and anti-inflammatory properties. Frankincense is also regarded as an effective analgesic because it gets rid of minor aches and pains.
Hemorrhoids are agglomerations of tissues that have blood vessels, elastic fiber, muscles, and nerves in it. Due to constipation, bowel straining and pregnancy, these delicate tissues clog up resulting to inflammation. Hemorrhoid inflammation can cause pain and discomfort to any individual. Aside from pain, symptoms like bleeding, protrusion, and itching around the anal area are noted. Both men and women suffer from hemorrhoids equally and are usually between the ages of 45-65 years old.
There are several ways on treating hemorrhoids. It can be through surgery or non-abrasive treatments. Patients opt for non-abrasive treatments because it does not cause too much pain. A lot of people are now switching to eco-friendly and all-natural remedies because it is cheaper than over-the-counter medicine. Some people suffering from hemorrhoids resort to herbal medicine, and one of their top choices is the frankincense.
Boswellia gum resin extracts are used to make natural ointments that can be used as treatment for hemorrhoids. Frankincense is prepared in various ways. One way of preparing Boswellia gum resin as a remedy is through a homemade balm or ointment. The frankincense resins are infused in oil for 2 to 3 weeks or heated at low heat in a turbo broiler for 3 hours. Heat helps the essential oil, particularly Boswellic Acid to come out of the plant. Ointment is made by straining the oil infusion with a clean cheese cloth and mixing it with beeswax under low heat. Finished products are then placed in small containers and are kept in a dry cool place.
Homemade Boswellic ointments are best used after washing the affected area with soap and water. This is done to reduce the risk of infection. Dabbing a generous amount of ointment on the swollen area thrice a day or as needed can help alleviate pain and discomfort. The beeswax of the ointment acts as an emollient and assists on a faster absorption of the essential oils.
Before using any homemade herbal ointment, it is best to conduct an allergy test. An allergy test can be done by dabbing a small amount of ointment on the arm. Observing the area for any signs of allergic reactions such as redness, itchiness, and rashes is a must. It is also recommended to see a healthcare professional for individuals suffering from hemorrhoids. Severity may vary from person to person and proper medical attention should be given to those who are suffering greatly from this condition. Frankincense is best used by people who have low allergic reactions.
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