In the magical world, Frankincense has always been a widely used substance; it has many uses and a range of effects plus it can be blended with other oils, resins and incenses such as cypress, sandalwood, citrus and myrrh – its famous partner from the Bible.

It is one of the most traditional and ancient magical materials known and is recorded as being used as far back as ancient Egypt, by shamans and pagans the world over. The fact that it is such an old substance adds to the mystical quality of frankincense, it has been traded for more than 5000 years in Arabian countries and in North Africa – once akin to gold in its value. Still valued today as a highly fragrant incense in religious ceremonies and meditation worldwide, it is prized for its uplifting and cleansing qualities and the ability to aid in driving out evil and negative forces, by breathing it in you are supposed to be more open to psychic visions and increased awareness.

The magical properties of frankincense are, amongst others: courage, joy, strength, health, success and it has a calming, freeing effect on the body and mind as well as being used generally for exorcism, purification, and protection spells. Its versatility is such that it can be used as an oil or in resin form.

As a ceremonial oil frankincense is often used for anointing magical tools, altars and spaces, cleansing and opening them before spells and rituals are performed. It is equally effective in this way when moving house, by burning the incense and walking with it around your new home whilst visualising the rooms being bathed with a pure, white light, you clear any residual energy and cleanse the space ready for you to start your time living there.

By using the incense or oil in a burner, breathing in the aroma can have a very positive effect on the mind. Frankincense is used in spells and rituals to invoke good luck, self-confidence and leadership qualities – perfect when starting a new job or going for a promotion as well as in everyday life to give yourself a magical boost, it can also aid in starting and expanding creative ventures and promoting spiritual growth.

Travel is another area where frankincense is valuable as a magical substance, carry it with you in resin form to aid a smooth journey, promote an air of safety and protection whilst also expanding your horizons and allowing yourself to ‘go with the flow’ and grow with new experiences.

Magically, frankincense is used in healing spells all over the world. It is thought that burning it every day in house brings good health. Amazingly the resin is edible and is used in many traditional medicines in Asia as an aid to digestion and to promote healthy skin. It is usually chewed like gum, but it is stickier because of its resin form and it has to be totally pure and given by a practitioner who knows the difference!

As with anything medical, do check with a qualified practitioner before taking frankincense in any form, it can be an irritant when used as oil and it should not be used in pregnancy at all without advice.