Is Frankincense Oil Safe for Dogs?
Essential oils are gaining popularity and for good reason. Essential oils have been proven to have mood-boosting effects, antibacterial properties, and can even act as an anti-inflammatory. It is no surprise that as we learn the benefits of essential oils for people, we also are learning the benefits of using them to help our pets.
Frankincense is one of the more popular essential oils for treating dogs. This powerful plant has several benefits, and when used properly can help promote overall health and well-being for your pet. While I cannot make medical claims about essential oils, the research speaks for itself.
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Benefits of Frankincense
Frankincense comes from hardened gum resins made from tapping Boswellia trees, which are mostly native to India. Frankincense has been studied heavily and has been found to have incredible benefits for people and animals. Several of the benefits are outlined in the sections below.
Reducing Inflammation and Pain
In a study published in the Natural Medicine Journal, researchers found that frankincense oil significantly reduced pain and improved physical functioning in osteoarthritis patients. In fact, a systematic review of data from the same study showed Boswellia extracts are clinically effective in asthma, rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn’s disease, osteoarthritis, and collagenous colitis. And, when paired with turmeric, these benefits were actually enhanced.
Effect on Cancer and the Immune System
While research is still being done into the use of essential oils to treat cancer and tumors, studies are increasingly finding that essential oils, including frankincense, may be helpful in treating cancer and tumors. One study published by the US National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that Frankincense oil appears to distinguish cancerous from normal bladder cells and suppress cancer cell viability – which means that, while still being researched, frankincense showed great promise in treating bladder cancer.
Another study by the NCBI found that frankincense may have the potential to successfully treat breast, brain, colon, stomach, and pancreatic cancers and boost the immune system. It is important to note that essential oils to treat cancer are still being researched, and you should speak to your veterinarian or doctor before incorporating oils into your treatment plan.
Easing Digestive Discomfort
In a recent study, frankincense was found to not only reduce inflammation (which promotes a healthy gut) but also reduces small intestinal injury. For dogs suffering from allergies and discomfort relating to their food, this can be a big help.
Reducing Anxiety and Stress
Frankincense has long been used by people in religious ceremonies and to relax the mind. In fact, diffusing frankincense has been proven to activate channels in the brain relating to happiness and feelings of calm and has antidepressant properties. These same feelings are activated in a pet’s brain, which can create an overall sense of calm for your pets.
Easing Pain
According to Natural Medicine Journal, researchers developed a study regarding pain and frankincense. The research found frankincense significantly reduced pain and improved physical function in patients with osteoarthritis. The same study also found frankincense to be medically helpful with Crohn’s Disease, asthma, depressed immune system, and colitis.
Administering Essential Oils
As when using essential oils on people, you should always dilute the oils before using them on your pet or allowing your pet to inhale them. It can also be helpful to start by using only essential oils intended for pets in specific pet products.
It is safe for your pet to ingest frankincense orally, but remember: not all oils are created equally. If the oil is extremely cheap or seems too good to be true, it probably is. Start with just a few drops added to your pet’s water or food per day. A little bit goes a long way when it comes to essential oils.
Frankincense can boost the effects of other essential oils, including CBD oil, and, as mentioned earlier, turmeric. I give my dogs EASE from CBD Dog Health every day and have seen a huge change in their inflammation, allergies, and even tumors. CBD Dog Health combines proper amounts of essential oils with full-spectrum CBD hemp oil to help you safely administer the oil to your pet for internal or topical use.
Final Thoughts
It’s important to remember, not all oils are created the same. If an essential oil is extremely inexpensive, it could be due to a lack of purity. Don’t mistake a pretty bottle for a high-quality product. Do your research prior to making a decision. We know if you’re looking into Frankincense, you’re wanting to see some type of improvement in the ailment you’re addressing. Choosing a high-quality product will provide you with the best results.
