Contents
Useful properties and application of olibanum
Description of olibanum
Olibanum – This is a unique resin that is obtained from trees called incense. Sometimes the parent tree itself is called that. Usually the tree has a small size, it is approximately 4-5 meters in height. It can be confused with a fruit tree, because it is not inferior in beauty at all. The trunk is strong, covered with dark brown bark.
An interesting feature of a tree is that it restores its bark immediately after shedding it. Young shoots are covered with short yellow hairs. It is thanks to them that resin is formed. Olibanum leaves are pinnate. They grow on the tips of branches, uniting in small groups. The foliage of this representative of the plant kingdom is very dense. And during flowering, you can see how the tree is covered with pale pink and white flowers.
They usually have about five petals and twice as many stamens. Due to its flowers, olibanum is often called a rock rose. You can find this wonderful tree in the southern regions of Crimea or in the mountains of Somalia. Olibanum, despite its beauty, is very capricious. It grows only at an altitude of about two kilometers in a suitable climate.
Useful properties of olibanum
The most common valuable product of the delicious olibanum is resin. It has a number of unique useful properties. Usually the resin is in the form of droplets of pale yellow or pink color. These opaque droplets are characterized by a wax-like luster. In addition to the attractive appearance of the plant, a wonderful smell is added, reminiscent of the aroma of ambergris and a spicy taste with bitterness.
If you try to grind pieces of resin, they easily turn into a white powder. Resin is an excellent tool for normalizing the nervous system. In addition, olibanum is a natural supplier of essential oils. This substance boasts a different aroma. Essential oils can be bitter, tart, musky, or spicy. The oil helps to effectively deal with depression, tension, anxiety or stress.
Application of olibanum
Since ancient times, olibanum has been used as an incense. Due to its properties, the resin has an incomparable rejuvenating effect. Therefore, in women, this fantastic plant remains an indispensable remedy for the skin. In ancient times, olibanum was the basis of an embalming agent. At the same time, the first patches with a healing effect began to be created.
Doctors of the Middle Ages believed that various remedies based on this plant help in stopping bleeding and is an anesthetic. Olibanum also inhibits the activity of pathogens. In fact, olibanum resin has unique healing properties. As a result of research on this plant, it becomes clear that it manifests itself as an excellent antiseptic. Various drugs have proven effective in various diseases of the respiratory organs. They are indispensable for the rapid removal of sputum.
The plant is often used in the treatment of asthma and other more dangerous respiratory diseases. Olibanum is used not only in pharmaceuticals, but also in alternative medicine. By chewing the resin, constipation can be prevented. The same method is also suitable for the treatment of diseases associated with the genitourinary system. But the essential oil is added to tea. Such a drink is considered a very good remedy for the prevention of serious ailments such as rheumatism or arthritis.
But the scope of olibanum does not end there. Plant oil can be seen in the composition of various cosmetic products for the treatment of problem skin or for the healing of wounds. This product is a good remedy for treating dandruff hair and giving it elasticity. Olibanum is also used in a large number of perfume products as a fragrance. It is highly valued as an incense.
Essential oils can also be used at home. A bath with olibanum perfectly soothes and gives relaxation. To achieve the effect, 4-5 drops are enough, which must be mixed with cream and poured into water. It is recommended to take such a bath for 20 minutes, but not more than three times a week. The oil can also be used for massage. It is necessary to mix 4-5 drops of oil with the base used. After such a miraculous massage, the skin becomes more elastic.
Olibanum oil is great for those with oily skin. It perfectly fights with the abundant secretion of sebum. Dry skin becomes more revitalized and toned. To combat acne, it is recommended to make baths using incense. In 500 ml of hot water, add 1 drop of olibanum oil, 2 drops of lemon and 2 drops of eucalyptus oil.
The essential oil of the presented plant is also often prescribed orally. 2-3 drops per cup of herbal tea are enough to feel a surge of strength, calmness and tranquility. In this case, the tool acts as an unsurpassed sedative.
Contraindications olibanum
There are no categorical prohibitions and restrictions on the use and use of olibanum. It is not recommended to use it for cancer, sclerosis and psoriasis. People who are sensitive to the smell of the plant may experience headaches.