Frankincense oils hold a distinct place within the world of essential oils due to their origin, aroma, and depth. Unlike oils distilled from leaves, flowers, or peels, frankincense is derived from aromatic resin, which gives it a richer and more complex character. This difference is often the first thing people notice when comparing frankincense to other oils.

Resin-Derived Origins Create A Deeper Aroma

Frankincense essential oil is steam-distilled from the hardened resin harvested from Boswellia trees. This resin-based origin produces a warm, grounding aroma that feels layered rather than sharp or fleeting. Compared to lighter oils, frankincense carries a sense of depth that tends to linger, making it stand out in both single-oil use and blends.

A Balance Of Freshness And Warmth

Essential frankincense oil is often described as both fresh and resinous simultaneously. Some varieties lean brighter and slightly citrus-like, while others have a richer, more earthy flavor. This versatility makes frankincense a suitable choice, fitting comfortably into routines that range from daytime use to quieter evening moments.

Why Frankincense Is Often Considered A Staple Oil

Frankincense is frequently one of the first resin oils people add to their collection because it accommodates a wide range of preferences. It can be used on its own for a more focused aromatic experience or paired with citrus, wood, or floral oils to add depth. This adaptability is one reason frankincense is often viewed as a cornerstone oil rather than a specialty option.

How Frankincense Compares Within Our Collection

Seeing frankincense alongside other oils helps highlight what makes it unique. Within our essential oils collection, frankincense stands apart for its resin-based source, longer-lasting aroma, and naturally grounding presence. These qualities make it distinct from more volatile or single-note oils.

A Foundation For Personal Preference

Because frankincense oils vary by species and aroma profile, they allow for personal choice rather than a one-size-fits-all experience. This flexibility helps explain why frankincense remains widely used and appreciated across many different routines and scent preferences.

Our Frankincense Oils: Species, Sourcing, And Aroma Profiles

At Plant Therapy, we offer several frankincense options because frankincense is not a single scent or experience. Each oil is derived from a specific Boswellia species, steam-distilled from resin, and possesses its own unique aromatic character. These differences help guide selection based on preference, sourcing priorities, and routine needs, which is part of our organic essential oils collection for those who prioritize certified organic sourcing.

Frankincense Carterii Essential Oil

Our Frankincense Carterii Essential Oil is steam distilled from the resin of Boswellia carterii. It is often chosen for its balanced aroma that feels both fresh and resinous. The scent carries light citrus and woody notes layered over a warm base, making it approachable for frequent use. Many customers view this as a pure frankincense oil option that represents a classic frankincense profile without feeling heavy.

Organic Frankincense Carterii Essential Oil

For those seeking certified sourcing, our organic frankincense oil option features the same Boswellia carterii species, harvested and distilled under organic standards. The aroma closely mirrors that of the non-organic version, maintaining its bright, clean, resinous character. This frankincense oil organic option is commonly chosen by those who value ingredient transparency.

Organic Frankincense Frereana Essential Oil

Organic Frankincense Frereana Essential Oil is steam distilled from the resin of Boswellia frereana. This species is known for a softer, slightly sweet aroma with hints of balsamic warmth. It feels smoother and less sharp than other frankincense types, making it appealing to those who prefer a gentler, yet still depthful, resin scent.

Frankincense Serrata Essential Oil

Frankincense Serrata Essential Oil is distilled from the resin of Boswellia serrata and offers a richer, more robust aroma. The scent leans earthy and resin-forward, with a heavier presence than carterii or frereana. This oil is often chosen by those who enjoy deeper, more traditional frankincense profiles.

Organic Frankincense Serrata Essential Oil

Our organic option of this species offers the same bold, aromatic character, with certified organic sourcing. The resinous scent is strong and grounding, making it suitable for routines where a pronounced presence of frankincense is preferred.

Bring intention into your routine with Plant Therapy frankincense oils. From classic single-species options to organic choices, our collection is built around clarity, quality, and real-life use. Choose the frankincense oil that suits your scent preference and daily routine style, knowing that every option is thoughtfully sourced and clearly labeled for everyday confidence.

How Different Frankincense Species Influence Scent And Benefits

Frankincense oils are associated with different sensory profiles and benefit themes, depending on the Boswellia species from which they originate. Each species’ natural resin composition helps shape its aroma and the way many people incorporate it into daily routines. The mix of limonene and pinene terpenes can change the way it smells and also the benefits of use. 

Boswellia Carterii And Balanced Aromatic Support

Frankincense from Boswellia carterii is often associated with balanced aromatic comfort. Its warm, slightly citrus-leaning resin profile is frequently chosen in routines meant to support a calm, grounded environment and a sense of presence during moments of quiet focus or reflection.

Boswellia Frereana And Smooth, Gentle Aromas

Boswellia frereana produces an aroma that is often described as softer and more rounded than that of other species. This gentler scent character makes it appealing to those who want the depth of frankincense without sharp or intense notes. It is frequently chosen in routines centered on relaxation and sensory smoothing.

Boswellia Serrata And Deep, Resinous Presence

Frankincense serrata is identified by a richer, more resin-forward scent. Many people prefer this species when a deeper, aromatic presence is desired, especially in routines where a bold, grounding aroma helps support focus or evening relaxation. Its earthy character gives it a weightier feel compared to lighter resin profiles.

How Species Differences Shape Experience

Each of these frankincense species varies in the balance of its naturally occurring aromatic compounds, which affects both scent and sensory associations. This means that one species may be better suited to daytime environments, while another may thrive in moments of quiet or intentional reflection.

Why Choosing The Right Species Matters

Because each type of frankincense has its own unique aromatic identity and associated benefits, selecting by species helps ensure the oil aligns with your preferences and personal goals. Choosing the right form makes it easier to use frankincense confidently and consistently, rather than approaching it with a one-size-fits-all mindset.

When Frankincense Oils Are Commonly Used In Daily Routines

Frankincense oils are often incorporated into routines that focus on slowing down, creating intentional moments, and bringing a sense of balance into everyday life. Their warm, resinous aroma lends itself to repeated use without feeling overpowering, which is why many people reach for frankincense during familiar, recurring moments.

Creating Calm In Shared Spaces

Frankincense oils are commonly used in shared spaces, such as living rooms or bedrooms, where a grounding scent helps establish a relaxed atmosphere. Their aroma feels comforting without dominating the space, making them suitable for daily use in areas where multiple people spend time.

Evening And Wind-Down Rituals

Many people choose frankincense oils as part of their evening routines. The deeper, resin-forward aroma pairs well with quieter moments, whether that involves reading, journaling, or simply transitioning out of a busy day. Frankincense is often favored at night because it has a calming effect rather than a stimulating one.

Diffusion During Focused Moments

Frankincense oils are also used during moments that require presence and attention. Diffusing frankincense while working, stretching, or engaging in reflective practices allows the aroma to fill the space evenly. Using frankincense in our essential oil diffusers makes it easy to maintain a consistent scent without additional steps.

Personal Routines And Intentional Pauses

Beyond shared spaces, frankincense oils are often part of personal rituals that emphasize mindfulness or grounding. These moments may be brief but intentional, allowing the aroma to support a sense of calm during transitions throughout the day.

Consistency Over Occasional Use

Frankincense oils tend to work best when used consistently rather than saved for special occasions. Their balanced scent profile holds up well over time, making them a dependable choice for routines that benefit from familiarity and repetition.

How To Decide Which Frankincense Oil Fits Your Preferences

Choosing the best frankincense oil often comes down to personal preference, style, and the level of convenience you desire in your experience. Here are some factors to consider: 

• Start With Scent Intensity Preference: Lighter, brighter frankincense varieties tend to feel more approachable for frequent use, while deeper, resin-forward options suit those who prefer a stronger, more grounding aroma.
• Choose By Routine Timing: Some frankincense oils are better suited for daytime use due to their balanced aroma, while others naturally align with evening routines or more serene moments. Nighttime use may also have some anti-aging benefits when used along with your skincare. 
• Single Oils Vs Blended Options: A single frankincense oil highlights one species clearly, while a frankincense oil blend offers layered aroma complexity for those who want a more rounded scent without combining oils themselves.
• Consider Ease & Portability: If convenience matters, ready-to-use formats can make frankincense easier to incorporate consistently, especially when routines happen outside the home.
• Match The Format To Your Lifestyle: For targeted, low-effort use, options like our roll-on essential oils allow frankincense to fit seamlessly into daily habits without setup.
• Let Familiarity Guide Long-Term Choice: As preferences develop over time, many people refine their selection based on which frankincense oil feels most comfortable and repeatable in their routine.

By focusing on these preference-based factors, selecting a frankincense oil becomes a confident, intentional choice that aligns with how you actually plan to use it.

Sources:

1. Kotb EA, El-Shiekh RA, Abd-Elsalam WH, El Sayed NSED, El Tanbouly N, El Senousy AS. Protective potential of frankincense essential oil and its loaded solid lipid nanoparticles against UVB-induced photodamage in rats via MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways; A promising anti-aging therapy. PLoS One. 2023 Dec 21;18(12):e0294067. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294067. PMID: 38127865; PMCID: PMC10735031. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10735031/
2. Melkina OE, Plyuta VA, Khmel IA, Zavilgelsky GB. The Mode of Action of Cyclic Monoterpenes (-)-Limoneneand (+)-α-Pinene on Bacterial Cells. Biomolecules. 2021 May 29;11(6):806. doi: 10.3390/biom11060806. PMID: 34072355; PMCID: PMC8227088. https://www.mdpi.com/2218-273X/11/6/806