Brain ON Superfood Concentrate 30g

How does BrainON work?

BrainON works specifically on our nervous system, brain function and the quality of our consciousness. It enables us to make a change in perception and increases our sense of well being and joy by relieving stress and increasing awareness.

Key Benefits of Brain On:

– Supports learning functions
– improves memory of the Immune system
– improves immunity on a cellular level
– highly nutritious containing essential fatty acids, and all amino acids
– ancient volcanic mineral content

What is AFA (Aphanizomenon flos-aquae)?

AFA is a nutrient dense, whole, wild blue-green algae superfood that supports overall cellular health. AFA is an excellent source of 65 vitamins, minerals, amino acids, essential fatty acids (EFAs) and rich source of chlorophyll. It also contains antioxidant molecules which have shown to have beneficial effects by reducing oxidative stress. It contains concentrated forms of natural amines to enhance brain function and improve emotional health, with the following noticeable effects:

an elevation in mood and improved behaviour patterns
elevated alertness
alleviated depression

What is PEA (Phenylethylamine)?

PEA known as the love molecule, also found in high levels in Raw Cacao. BrainON contains a concentrated high level of organic PEA. There is up to 20 times more PEA in Brain On than found in Raw Cacao. Raw Cacao & AFA work synergistically so when taken together it is a highly recommended and powerful combination!

PEA acts on the emotional centre of the brain to markedly promote mood balance, mental alertness and increase energy.

PEA has been shown to be at a lower level in those with Attention Deficit Disorder, therefore BrainON provides an extra shot of this PEA to support overall cognitive function. People report increased attention at both school and work.

What is Phycocyanin?
Phycocyanin is a naturally occurring, brilliant blue pigment and stimulates blood production which in turn strengthens the immune system. It is also a potent antioxidant, protecting the body against DNA damage and premature aging.

How do I take BrainON ?
BrainON is best taken in cool to room temperature liquid – do not add to warm or hot liquids as this could impact the nutritional integrity. BrainON can be taken in water – it has a mild, slightly floral flavour. Its very palatable.

The best way to take BrainON is in one of the following synergistic combinations:

BrainON & raw cacao powder (can be added to raw chocolates or smoothies)
BrainON & raw plant fat such as:

cacao butter (add to raw chocolates)
coconut oil (add to raw chocolates)
avocado (add to raw chocolate mousse)

BrainON & chaga (can both be added to raw chocolates and smoothies) for its adaptagenic and immune modulating effect.

Brain On Dosage
Start with a teaspoon powder or 2 capsules. If the effects are noticed with this dose then continue to take BrainON as and when it is required (for example, an hour before a meeting or exam where focus is required). The effects generally last for a good few hours and will slowly fade with time. There are no major high and lows that occur on use of the product. If however no effect is noted, then take the dose daily until you achieve a desired effect. It is interesting to note that the effects are most noticeable in people who experience higher levels of stress. There are no side effects either so increasing the dose until a noticeable effect is achieved will not create any unpleasant reaction.

Children: Dosage should initially start at 1/4 teaspoon or 1 capsule.

Allergens: None

Contra-indications: This product is 100% safe though people diagnosed with Bi-Polar or Schizophrenia should consult with their doctor before using this product as it may cause over-stimulation of the senses.
It is advised, however, to consult your practioner before incorporating BrainON into your daily regiment for the following:
pregnant/nursing mothers
alongside any medication eg anti depressants, anti anxiety, blood thinners

Superfoods Nut Milk Bag

INGREDIENTS

1 cup raw almonds, soaked in water for 4 hours up to overnight

4 cups of water

3-6 dates, soaked in water for an hour (use 6 if you like it on the sweet side)

1 teaspoon Vanilla

Pinch of Sea Salt

 

PREPARATION

  1. You soak the almonds for at least 4 hours and then drain them.
  2. You put the almonds in your blender (it doesn’t have to be a fancy pants blender. Mine is from the 70’s and I’m pretty sure it’s going to out-live me) along with the water, dates, vanilla and salt.
  3. Blend, blend, blend until all of the almonds are blended (this will take only about 1 minute)
  4. Put a bowl under either a strainer, a nut milk bag (you can for sure find this at Whole Foods) or regular old cheese cloth (but make sure the cloth isn’t actually old and gross)
  5. Pour the mixture into the sieve-like accessory that you chose and drain the milk into the bowl.
  6. You may have to press a spoon into the mixture or use your hands and squeeze out the milk (yes, like milking a cow’s tit but way less gross. Why are people still drinking milk from an actual cow? You guys, it’s gross) so that all of the liquid is extracted.
  7. Drink within 3-4 days

Himalaya Triphala

Himalaya Triphala

Himalaya Triphala

Himalaya Triphala

The prokinetic cleanser

An immensely popular Ayurvedic herbal formula, Triphala(Terminalia chebula,Terminalia bellirica and Emblica officinalis) is an effective bowel cleanser. It combines the goodness of Indian Gooseberry, Belleric Myrobalan and Chebulic Myrobalan, which work together to produce effective bowel movements.

The herbal compound provides overall support for digestion and helps ensure that the digestive tract works at optimal levels. Triphala relieves constipation and regularizes the digestive system, without disrupting the fluid-electrolyte balance in the body.

The herbs that make up Himalaya Triphala are found in abundance in India.

Active constituents:

Himalaya Triphala has nutritional, blood and liver cleansing properties. Chebulic Myrobalan, one of the herbs in Triphala, contains anthraquinones, which help stimulate peristalsis. Triphala is rich in polyphenols which are powerful antioxidants.

Functions:

Gastrointestinal support: Triphala improves digestion and assimilation, cleanses and tones the gastrointestinal tract, corrects constipation by its effective laxative action, and is nonhabit forming.

It is also an antioxidant, which reduces oxidative stress on the body.

Himalaya Triphala Indications:

Gastrointestinal motility disorders:
i. Functional and chronic constipation
ii. Dyspepsia
iii. Gastroparesis
Constipation associated with piles, cardiac patients, and postoperative conditions
As a health supplement during convalescence

Contraindications:
None

Capsule:

Adults: One capsule, twice a day or as directed by your physician
Composition:

Each capsule contains 250mg extract of Triphala

MSM Powder 100g

MSM Powder 100g

FANTASTIC NATURAL PRODUCT
FOR CHRONIC PAIN RELIEF
100% Pure MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane)

MSM is a safe, natural, supplement, which is a component of the proteins necessary for the formation of skin, hair, nails and muscle. MSM is also a component of bones, teeth and collagen (connective tissue). MSM is integral in the formation of bile acids by the liver and insulin by the pancreas. It is the fourth most plentiful mineral in the body and it essential for life.

WHAT IS MSM USED FOR?
MSM (methylsulfonylmethane), is an organic form of sulphur readily absorbed and utilized by our bodies. MSM is composed of 34% bio-available sulphur, making it the richest source of organic sulphur available. MSM is a safe, natural, supplement, which assists the body in maintaining adequate sulphur stores. MSM may support the body in regulating insulin production, improving skin smoothness and elasticity, regulating environmental and allergic sensitivities, enhancing bowel function and liver detoxification, and enhancing respiratory function.
Our bodies require the element sulphur for many of its functions. Sulphur is a component of the proteins necessary for the formation of skin, hair, nails and muscle. Sulphur is also a component of bones, teeth and collagen (connective tissue). Sulphur is integral in the formation of bile acids by the liver and insulin by the pancreas. It is the fourth most plentiful mineral in the body and it essential for life.

HISTORY OF MSM
Doctors Jacob and Herschler at the Oregon Health and Sciences University in Portland Oregon, discovered MSM in the early 1985s. MSM comes from the evaporation of the waters of the Oceans, into the rain clouds, and then is present in the rain itself. If you water your garden with rainwater, then MSM will be present in the produce of your garden. If you water your garden with water from only your faucet, then no MSM will be present in your produce.
MSM should be present in all the produce we consume, however it is easily destroyed by any heat, or processing of foods or water treatment plants. Therefore finding MSM in our readily available foods is getting harder to do. The half-life of MSM is only 12 hours when consumed within the body. Therefore supplementation with MSM should be repeated both morning and again in the evening.
MSM is considered very safe. Toxicity is extremely rare. MSM is generally non-allergenic. MSM Applications: Supported by Research and multiple patents, MSM in sufficient levels as a Dietary Supplement, can help and improve the following conditions: Allergic responses, Gastrointestinal Disorders, Reduces effects of stress, Improves circulation and Enhances cell vitality, Helps regulate insulin production, Improves skin smoothness and elasticity, Reduces pain associated with systemic inflammatory disorders, including arthritis, night leg cramps and migraines. MSM has also shown beneficial in reducing sluggish memory, and symptoms of asthma and emphysema, reducing post athletic activity fatigue and improved joint flexibility.

The addition of the following synergistic ingredients greatly improves the effectiveness of MSM in many of the above conditions: Vitamin C, Amylase, Cellulase, Lipase, Sucrase, Maltase, Lactase, Bromelain and Amyloglucosidase. The addition of Glucosamine HCL greatly improves the effectiveness of MSM for Osteoarthritis.

MSM serves two very important processes within the body.
Some of the excess MSM you consume will flush out of your body in about 12 hours, taking with it many toxins. It is involved in the cellular makeup of the cells walls of any of the new cells your body creates. Our bodies are constantly making new cells to replace old cells. As new cells are created, the MSM is incorporated into the polypeptide bonds that make up the cells walls. The result is the creation of cell walls that are more permeable to nutrients. It is like comparing backpack nylon material to cheesecloth. Cells walls without MSM will be very impermeable to nutrients while cells walls with adequate MSM will be very permeable to nutrients.
Skin: The sulphur within MSM is responsible for the flexibility and elasticity of skin. When sufficient MSM is present, the skin is softer, smoother and more flexible. Tests conducted among laboratory animals indicated that wound healing occurred faster with a group receiving MSM plus vitamin C. Based on this information, MSM has been used to enhance skin wellness, improve scar formation and to assist in skin health in teens prone to acne.

Allergy: There is considerable anecdotal evidence that MSM promotes reduction in allergic symptoms in individuals with environmental allergies and sensitivities. Dr. Jacobs, who has utilized MSM in research at the Oregon Health Sciences University, reports improved allergic responses with the use of MSM.

Liver detoxification: Sulphur is extremely important component of Glutathione, the amino acid integral in phase 2 liver detoxification enzymes. Adequate levels of this based-based amino acid are necessary for the liver to perform its detoxification role. Supplementation with MSM may promote improved liver detoxification.

Joints: General improvement in overall joint mobility is seen with the use of MSM. Reports have noted improvement in pain and inflammation associated with arthritis and gout. It is postulated that this is due to based enhancement of the sodium-potassium pump, allowing improved fluid flow and removal of cell toxins with reduction of pain and inflammation. One study at Oregon Health Sciences University found that animals that were given MSM showed no degeneration of cartilage associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Studies in human volunteers with arthritis showed a 60 percent improvement in pain after taking 2.25 grams per day of MSM for four weeks. After six weeks, the improvement rate rose to 82 percent.
Lung: MSM has been purported to enhance lung function by regulating the fluid that covers the airway surface of the lungs (surfactant) and decreasing inflammation. It has been used to decrease airway reactivity in asthmatics. One study showed that MSM increased lung capacity in a group of patients with emphysema.

Parasitic infections and gastrointestinal health: Animal studies suggest that MSM may help lessen parasitic, microbial and fungal infections at levels of 750 to 1500 mg. daily. MSM probably works by competing for receptor sites on the mucous membrane surface thereby blocking parasite adherence.

SIDE EFFECTS
MSM is considered very safe. Toxicity is extremely rare. No toxic effects were shown in humans given up to one gram per kilogram of body weight (70 Grams or more) per day for 30 days. MSM is generally non-allergenic.

DOSAGE
MSM dissolves most quickly in warm water. Once it is dissolved you can then mix in more water, or add any beverage to disguise the taste.
One heaped teaspoon is about 5 grams (5,000mg). We suggest you start with one teaspoon per day of the bulk, and if you don’t see some dramatic change in the absence of pain within two days, increase the dosage. Continue increasing the dosage up to 4 heaped teaspoons per day (20 grams). Most people should achieve very dramatic relief from arthritic pain by the time they reach 20 grams.

The proper way to consume MSM, to avoid that bitter taste is to take a spoonful of the bulk MSM and place it on the tip of your tongue. Now quickly consume a large amount liquid. Water can be used. However juices will mask any small taste, especially Cranberry Juice, Tomato juice, Orange juice, or any juice will help hide the taste of the MSM. MSM, when place on the tip of your tongue is tasteless. It is when it dissolves that the taste is so very bitter. Consuming MSM in this manner will allow nearly all of the MSM to dissolve in your stomach, far on the other side of your taste buds! Disguising the taste? None of these juices will adversely affect the results of the MSM.

AlgaeCal Plant Calcium

Buy AlgaeCal Plant Calcium Online

AlgaeCal Plant Calcium

Patent pending AlgaeCal® is an ocean algae from South America that is revolutionizing calcium supplementation.

AlgaeCal is more than a rich calcium source – it also contains large amounts of magnesium and bone
supporting trace minerals including boron, silica, strontium and vanadium – and all are plant-derived for bioavailability!

Most important, AlgaeCal has been involved in several clinical studies with superior results.

  • Bio-Available Calcium
  • Magnesium and Trace Minerals from Ocean Algae
  • Vitamin D3 added

 

Additional Minerals Found in AlgaeCal Plant Calcium

Boron (from AlgaeCal) 26 ppm
Copper (from AlgaeCal) .91 ppm
Manganese (from AlgaeCal) 36 ppm
Nickel (from AlgaeCal) .082 ppm
Phosphorous (from AlgaeCal) 397 ppm
Potassium (from AlgaeCal) 426 ppm
Silica (from AlgaeCal) 872 ppm
Strontium (from AlgaeCal) 1440 ppm
Vanadium (from AlgaeCal) 26 ppm

How Much Calcium Do You Need?

The National Academy of Sciences, Dietary Reference Intakes suggests that an average adult should get 1000-1300 mg elemental calcium each day. But studies indicate a typical North American adult gets only 500 – 700 mg elemental calcium per day from food. So AlgaeCal Plant Calcium was formulated to provide 750 mg elemental calcium per day to make up for shortfall of calcium in our diets. So, if you get 550 mg of calcium from your food, plus 750 mg from AlgaeCal your total is 1300 mg per day which is optimal for even the most needy groups.

Recommended Calcium Intakes
Age Amount of Calcium (mg)
Infants
Birth to 6 months 210
6 months to 1 year 270
Children/Young Adults
1 to 3 years 500
4 to 8 years 800
9 to 18 years 1,300
Adult Women & Men
19 to 50 years 1,000
50 years and older 1,200
Pregnant or Lactating
18 years or younger 1,300
19 to 50 years 1,000

Source: National Academy of Sciences, 1997.

What’s In An AlgaeCal Supplement?

Calcium is getting a lot of attention lately. It seems every few days, there is another study released by a reputable organization either providing strength to the calcium debate or taking some of its steam away.

The majority of the studies conducted are done on a calcium type not found in the AlgaeCal supplement. Studies, which have been referenced below, are testing Calcium Carbonate. This form of calcium is not plant-based and is derived from rocks or salt. This type of calcium is harder to digest, and it can sometimes do more harm than good.

AlgaeCal calcium supplement is an all-natural, whole food calcium supplement containing no Calcium Carbonate. Studies that have been conducted on the AlgaeCal supplement show very different results from those done on Calcium Carbonate.

Where Does Calcium Carbonate Come From?

Most Calcium Carbonate is hundreds of millions years old. Long before you or me, the world was still teeming with life. Sea creatures inhabited the vast oceans, lived out their lives and died. After they passed, their calcite skeletons collected on the sea floor. As time pushed forward, the plates of the earth continued to move and the skeletons were pushed up against the earth’s crust with immense pressure. This pressure is what turns these calcite skeletons into calcium carbonate. Hundreds of millions of years later, these mineralized skeletons are harvested, processed as a supplement and sold to you, the consumer.

While this process may be mostly natural, scientific evidence is still showing that those who take calcium carbonate are experiencing negative side effects that can have drastic life consequences.

Where Does AlgaeCal Calcium Come From?

We don’t have to go deep into the ocean to find our whole food calcium. You can see it when you walk on the beaches of many South American countries. It’s known as Algas Calcereas, sp., and it is the main source of calcium in the AlgaeCal supplement. In an era where it’s hard to envision food being processed without the use of automated machinery or expensive factories, we’ve gone back to a natural process that has served humans for eons – gathering. The AlgaeCal supplement is handpicked and sun dried. The only process we put it through is the milling process, turning it into a powder. The rest is done by simple hands and the warm sun.

 

Nina Malanje African Black Soap

Nina Malanje African Black Soap

Nina Malanje African Black Soap

What is African black soap?

African black soap (also called African soap or black soap) is the latest skin care product to reach “holy grail” status, and for good reason.

Touted as a solution for breakouts, hyper pigmentation, stretch marks, and everything in between, black soap is the ultimate beauty buy for those on a budget. A one-size-fits-all approach to flawless skin?

And unlike the synthetic soaps you find at the drugstore, authentic black soap is handmade from plant-based ingredients in Africa. Each fair-trade purchase supports sustainable production and, in some cases, directly benefits communities in need.

  1. It’s antibacterial

Natural antibacterial properties make African black soap an excellent alternative to chemical-laden cleansers. In fact, it may actually remove more bacteria than chemical cleansers do. Despite its strength, black soap is gentle enough to use on your face, hands, and body.

  1. It’s safe for all skin types

If you have dry or sensitive skin, you know that scented soaps and lotions are off-limits. African black soap is naturally fragrance-free — just make sure your chosen product is labeled “unscented.”

People with oily or combination skin are also in the clear! Black soap can help balance your skin’s natural oil production without stripping necessary oils or adding excess oil to your skin.

  1. It’s moisturizing

Shea butter is a crucial ingredient in black soap. While shea can help relieve itchiness and soothe dry skin, cocoa and coconut oil add moisture.

  1. It won’t make your skin oily

If you have combination skin, this makes choosing the right soap that much easier. Shea may add moisture, but coconut oil may help prevent overactive oil glands.

  1. It helps soothe irritation

African black soap may also soothe itchiness and irritation caused by eczema, contact dermatitis, and skin allergies. It may even help clear rashes related to eczema and psoriasis. To maximize these benefits, find a soap with oatmeal added.

  1. It’s anti-inflammatory

Black soap is rich in vitamins A and E. These vitamins are both antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and attacks on otherwise healthy skin tissues. This may be helpful for people who have inflammatory conditions like rosacea.

  1. It helps fight acne

On that note, black soap may also help fight acne. In addition to balancing your skin’s natural oils, the soap’s shea content may help repair damaged cells. Its antimicrobial properties may even clear severe acne caused by Propionibacterium acnes bacteria.

  1. It may help reduce fine lines

Shea butter and coconut oil may help reduce collagen loss and encourage new development. In turn, this can help plump up fine lines and wrinkles. The rough texture of the soap can also exfoliate dead skin cells that make fine lines more noticeable.

  1. It helps protect against photoaging

Antioxidants found in shea butter can help protect your skin from photoaging. Over time, sun exposure can cause sun spots (age spots), but black soap may offer another barrier.

  1. It helps improve skin texture

African black soap is chock-full of natural ingredients, but part of its benefits come from its form. When left unprocessed, the raw ingredients that make up black soap leave the product far less smooth than the average drugstore soap bar. This makes it a natural exfoliant, which may help improve skin texture.

  1. It helps prevent razor burn and related rashes

Exfoliation is another key factor in keeping your skin smooth after shaving, waxing, or other methods of hair removal. Exfoliating will help remove dead skin cells before they can clog your hair follicles. The moisture in African black soap may also help prevent the lumps and bumps that result from razor burn.

  1. It may help reduce hyperpigmentation

Hyperpigmentation is often caused by acne scarring and sun damage — two things that African black soap may help soothe or prevent.

  1. It may help minimize the appearance of scars and stretch marks

Thanks to its shea butter and vitamin E content, black soap may help reduce the redness and overall appearance of stretch marks and other scars. It may also help minimize related itchiness.

  1. It’s antifungal

One study on the effects of African black soap found the product effective for seven types of fungus — this includes the common Candida albicans yeast. You can safely use African black soap to help treat conditions like toenail fungus and athlete’s foot.

 

Biosil Essiac Tea Herb Mix

Biosil Essiac Tea Herb Mix

Biosil Essiac Tea Herb Mix

PRODUCT:  Essiac Tea mix

DESCRIPTION:  Essiac Tea herbs – sufficient to make up four litres

BENEFITS:  Some reported successes of this wonderful tea are:

hypoglycemia, MS, parkinsons, arthritis, malignancies, CFS, ulcers, fibroids, thyroid problems, hemorrhoids, prostate and urinary problems, circulation, warts, diabetes, psoriasis, sleeping disorders, impotence, alzheimers, asthma, allergies

FURTHER INFORMATION:

 Directions for making up the tea

ESSIAC TEA
How to make Essiac Tea:
Empty all of these herbs into a stainless steel saucepan
Add 4 litres of water äóñ bring to the boil, then simmer gently for 15 minutes
Turn off the heat
Leave to infuse overnight
Next morning, bring just to a point of boiling and then turn off the heat
Leave to cool
Strain into glass bottles
This is now your concentrated tea
* * * *

Dosage:

* The dosage is 50 ml of the Tea and 50ml of boiling filtered water 1-3 times daily on an empty stomach.

* It is best to not eat for an hour before drinking the Tea and an hour afterwards.

* As a preventative, one dose a day should be adequate. * To restore health, use two doses a day.

* If you are confronted with a serious condition, use three doses a day.

* There are no negative side effects, even after long-term use and it can be used with your current medications.

* Not advised if pregnant or breast-feeding

Badger Nursing Balm

Badger Nursing Balm

Badger Nursing Balm

Just five simple ingredients make up this certified organic and 100% natural blend. Formulated to
soothe and protect, it has no added fragrance—just the natural aroma of coconut oil and beeswax.
Lab tested hypoallergenic and pediatrician approved—safe for mom and baby. Use after breastfeeding
to protect and soothe nipples.

Ingredients
INGREDIENTS: *Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, *Cera Alba (Beeswax), *Cocos Nucifera (Coconut) Oil, *ÊOlea Europaea (Olive) Fruit Oil, *Copernicia Cerifera (Carnauba) Wax. * = Certified Organic Ê= Extra Virgin Olive Oil

 

Bach Remedy Scleranthus

Bach Scleranthus

Scleranthus
“Those who suffer much from being unable to decide between two things, first one seeming right then the other. They are usually quiet people, and bear their difficulty alone, as they are not inclined to discuss it with others.” – Dr. Edward Bach
Keyword: Indecision, imbalance, uncertainty, dizziness
Human indication:  When you suffer from indecision, particularly when faced with two choices.
Animal/pet indication: Animals who can’t make up their mind; any swinging behavior pattern (eats/doesn’t, sleeps a lot/no sleep).

Escentia Frankincense Essential Oil

Extraction:
Steam distillation from selected oleo gum resin.
(Incisions are made in three bark which exudes resin in yellow drops or ‘tears’)

Charactersitics:
A pale yellow or pale amber greenish liquid with an odour which is fresh-terpeney, almost green-lemon-like, or reminiscent of unripe apple peel. A certain pepperiness is mellowed with a rich, sweet-woody, balsamic undertone.
MIDDLE TO BASE NOTE.

Odour effects:
Comforting and soothing.

Cautions:
Can be soporific in large doses.

Main chemical constituents:
n-Octyl acetate – 41 %
Alpha Pinene, Beta Pinene, Alpha Thujene, Alpha terpinene, dipenten, p-cymene, myrcene, phellandrene, limonene – 45 %
n-Octanol, farneso – 6%
(Major differences occur between resins from Aden, India or Eritrea.)

Properties and indications:
MIND
Known to slow down breathing. Also reputed to induce conditions of spirituality. Tends to bring about an elevating and soothing effect on the mind.
BODY
Effective on mucous membranes, helping to clear lungs. Has a marked effect on respiration, and may be useful for asthma sufferers. Has a soothing action on head colds. Has a helpful action on the genito-urinary tract, being useful for conditions such a cystitis and nephritis. Soothes the stomach, easing digestion, dyspepsia and belching.
SKIN
An absolute tonic for aging skin. Could help to smooth out wrinkles and help balance oily conditions. Effective with wounds, sores, ulcers and carbuncles.

Other uses:
Employed in some liniments and throat pastilles. Used widely to make incense. Used extensively in perfumery to impart oriental and spicy notes.

More on frankincense

Mankind’s fascination with this oil, and resin, goes back thousands of years. ‘Incense’ refers to aromatic smoke ( Latin – incensum ), “to kindle”, and frankincense means “true incense”. Franc, in Old French meant free, pure, abundant. In many circles, this special product is known as Olibanum, from the Arabic ‘luban’, referring to the milky juice that the trees exude. It is also thought to mean “Oil of Lebanon”.

Frankincense is steam-distilled from the gum-resin which is present physiologically in the bark of a large number of species of small, hardy trees from the genus Boswellia ( family Bursaraceae). Although the most widely known is B.carteri, there are at least 17 Boswellia species, a number of which yield commercial quantities of gum, such as B.neglecta, B.serrata, B. frereana, B. thurifera and B. papyrifera. These tough trees are found in the mountainous areas of Western India, Southern Arabia and North-Eastern Africa. They are hardly ever cultivated, and today still, the whereabouts of some is a well kept secret because of the massive potential exploitation that prevailed around the time of the Roman Empire. Somalia is a major producer in recent times. The bark is carefully scraped or chipped to increase the flow of liquid resin, which dries to yellowish ‘tears’ in the sun. Local goat-herders in North Africa are given special combs, to obtain gum-resin from the beards of their animals, once penned in the evening!

It requires a very good distillation technique to obtain a high quality oil. The resultant product is a mobile, pale yellow to amber-green liquid with fresh-terpeney, green lemon-like/unripe apple-peel odour. A peppery note and rich, sweet-woody balsamic undertones make up this complex, delightful smelling essential-oil.

Frankincense was a very important product in the religious and domestic lives of Ancient Egypt, Persia, Hebrew, Greek and Roman civilizations, finding use as a cosmetic and perfume ingredient, an aromatic incense, and in many religious rituals.

The essential-oil operates at a physiological, psychological as well as spiritual level. General opinion is that by far its most prominent property is the positive effect generated on the nervous system, where it can be used to relax as well as revitalise the system. It can act as a mild tonic and may have an anti-depressant effect. It also has a very beneficial effect on the respiratory system, expelling catarrh, and helping to counteract bronchitis and asthma. It can be used to strengthen the immune system and can be effective against inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. It makes a wonderful addition to creams, especially for aging skin, having a renown effect on scars, wounds and wrinkles. Energetically, it assists with the smooth flow of Qi, where stress has led to stagnation of energy flow, and irritability.

Religious and spiritual traditions all over the world have recognised the profound effect of Frankincense in meditation, contemplation and prayer, stilling the mind and allowing focussed concentration. Its effect in slowing down the breath is well known, enabling a state of tranquillity, insight and spiritual self-discipline.