Today is Winter Solstice, which is the shortest day, and the longest night of the year in the northern hemisphere. Traditionally, it is a time to start slowing down the hustle and bustle and prepare for what lies ahead as dark days gradually move toward growing longer and brighter again. And what better oil to use on this day than Frankincense to help quiet the spirit and instill a meditative mind. The use of Frankincense dates back to antiquity, the resin revered for centuries in spiritual practices. Today, the resin is still widely used for religious purposes, and the oil is often found in meditation blends for promoting a sense of wellbeing and self-reflection.
Use Frankincense this Solstice to create a ritual to set the intention of releasing the challenges of the past months and bring in what you want in the New Year. Combine the oil with a carrier oil, such as Jojoba, in our lovely Miron Violet Glass roller bottle to create an elevated experience. A good dilution rate for this purpose is 10% Frankincense to 90% carrier oil. Apply the oil your temples, wrists and to the palms of your hands, cupping your hands under your nose to deeply breathe in the aroma. Take a moment to relax and allow yourself to focus on your intentions of letting go and manifestations for the coming year.
Another thing to consider when using essential oils and natural materials is knowing from where they are sourced. This is particularly important for Frankincense, as controversy arose some months back about an exporter in Somaliland, an area well-known for harvesting this precious commodity. We have stringent guidelines in place to ensure workers are treated fairly and the resin is not over harvested. Over harvesting not only damages the Boswellia trees, it also has a negative financial impact on the local villagers who collect the material. We work with producers who educate the villagers on sustainable practices, creating a more stable income, and collection is done by the local Harvesting Communities in accordance with community elders.
You can have peace of mind knowing that your intention work is also supporting the livelihood of those who collect it for you. Choose from our variety essential oils and extracts from regions known for producing the best quality Frankincense:
Frankincense, Somalia: Dry, diffusive, and bright citrus top notes over a resinous/coniferous, slightly peppery and balsamic undertone.
Frankincense, Somalia - Organic: Smoky/lemony top notes balanced with sweet woody/resinous body notes; the drydown is clear, soft, balsamic
Frankincense, Oman: Fresh, warm, resinous, coniferous, with peppery undertones and a top note of lemon-orange citrus.
Frankincense Frereana - Organic: Very fresh, diffusive, sharp, pine-like, with an intense, deep, woody/resinous undertone and slight citrus/coniferous top note.
Frankincense CO2, Somalia: Warm, sweet balsamic, woody/resinous, very smooth, with a slightly peppery undertone and clear lemon and pine-like top notes.
Frankincense CO2, India: Warm, resinous, smooth, musky/earthy yet subtle, deep, and complex aroma; has a slight licorice-like undertone.
Happy Solstice!
