From temple smoke to crystal flacons, frankincense and myrrh are the oldest magic most of us still use. Burned, tinctured, or distilled, they’re tools for cleansing space, steadying the mind, and marking the threshold between ordinary time and the sacred.
What they are (and why they work so well)
- Frankincense (olibanum) is the aromatic resin of Boswellia trees. Fresh tears smell citrus-piney with a balsamic glow; the smoke reads bright, clean, and lightly lemoned. In ritual it’s the archetypal space cleanser and focus aid for prayer/meditation.
- Myrrh is the darker, wine-balsamic resin of Commiphora species. It grounds and deepens blends, lending a somber, contemplative tone associated with healing, mourning, and thresholds.
Historically, both were medicine and sacrament: burned in temples, infused into oils, and used in perfumery and embalming. In ritual practice today they’re still the go-to pairing: frankincense to lift, myrrh to root.
Simple ways to use them
- Charcoal fumigation (classic): Place a lit resin-grade charcoal in a heatproof censer with sand. Add a pinch of resin; refresh as needed. Ventilate lightly so smoke moves, not billows.
- Resin tincture (alcohol): Macerate powdered resin at ~1:5 in high-proof alcohol for 2–4 weeks; filter. Use a few drops in water as a room mist (shake well) or add to anointing blends.
- Anointing oil: Infuse resins gently in a neutral carrier (jojoba/sweet almond) with mild heat, then strain. Use for consecration, meditation, or devotional practice.
- Cone/incense blends: Powder resins with woods (sandal, cedar) and gums (gum arabic) to shape cones that burn smoothly.
What people use them for (traditional & modern)
- Cleansing & consecration: Houses, tools, altars, and new ventures.
- Meditation focus: The citrus-balsamic lift of frankincense helps “clear the channel.”
- Rites of passage & grief: Myrrh’s wine-resin depth marks liminal moments.
- Aromatherapy & perfumery: Distilled oils/hydrosols in calming, contemplative blends.
Health note: Modern users often cite digestive, respiratory, or antimicrobial effects. Treat historical/folk uses as tradition, not prescription. If you’re pregnant, nursing, on medication, or have a condition, seek qualified guidance.
Sourcing & quality
- Frankincense types: B. sacra/carterii (bright lemon-pine), B. serrata (spicier), B. frereana (honeyed). Lighter tears are often brighter; darker grades can be deeper and smokier.
- Myrrh types: Commiphora myrrha (classic), C. guidottii (opoponax, sweeter, amber-like).
- Buy whole tears, fresh-smelling, from sellers who state species and origin; avoid dusty, oxidized resin. Ethically minded vendors support sustainable tapping and local communities.
Safety essentials
- Ventilation: Resin smoke is potent, air the room and avoid heavy inhalation.
- Heat safety: Use a stable censer and heatproof surface; never leave burning incense unattended.
- Skin: Undiluted essential oils can irritate; dilute properly (typically 1–3% in carrier).
- Myrrh caution: Concentrated myrrh products may be contraindicated in pregnancy and can interact with some medications; avoid ingestion unless advised by a clinician.
- Pets: Birds and small animals are sensitive to smoke; keep them away from fumes.
Quick ritual: “Open & Anchor” (5 minutes)
- Crack a few frankincense tears; add a pinch of myrrh (2:1 ratio).
- On lit charcoal, waft smoke clockwise through the room; stand at the center.
- Breathe slowly, in on four counts, out on six, naming what you invite (clarity, peace).
- Close with one intention you can act on today.
