Comparisons
Frankincense or Myrrh?
Frankincense (Boswellia) and myrrh (Commiphora myrrha) are tree resins often named together as incense. Their health uses, however, differ. The table is built from the sourced cards of both herbs.
| Aspect | Frankincense (Olibanum)Boswellia sacra / Boswellia serrata | MyrrhCommiphora myrrha (C. molmol) |
|---|---|---|
| Strongest evidence | B Limited clinical evidence | T Traditional use |
| Needs | Joints, Bones & Pain, Respiratory, Throat & Mouth | Respiratory, Throat & Mouth, Skin & Hair |
| Form | Resin & Gum | Resin & Gum |
| How to use | Ready-made standardised extract as labelled. Clinical trials used up to 1,000 mg of extract a day for up to 6 months. | For the mouth, the tincture is diluted in water and used as a rinse or gargle, or dabbed undiluted onto the sore with a cotton bud. See a doctor if symptoms last more than 1 week. |
| Pregnancy | Avoid | Avoid |
| Breastfeeding | Avoid | Avoid |
| Recommended minimum age | From age 18 | From age 12 |
| Drug interactions | No recorded interactions | No recorded interactions |
| Duration limit | 6 months (in studies) | 1 week |
Which one, when?
Frankincense (Olibanum)
In a few small studies, standardised Boswellia extracts reduced pain and stiffness in knee osteoarthritis; results are inconsistent and study quality low. Can cause heartburn; take with food.
Full card →Myrrh
The tincture is traditionally used as a gargle or dabbed on for small mouth sores and gum inflammation, and on the skin for small wounds and boils; not swallowed. For up to 1 week.
Full card →Good to know
- Incense smoke can worsen asthma and chronic lung disease; do not burn it indoors.
- Myrrh tincture is high in alcohol and may briefly sting where applied.
- Neither is recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding; frankincense not under 18, myrrh not under 12.
Sources
- Boswellia: Usefulness and SafetyNIH NCCIH · 2025 · Official agency informationSource accessed:
- Efficacy of extracts of oleogum resin of Boswellia in the treatment of knee osteoarthritis: a systematic review and meta-analysisPhytotherapy Research · 2024 · Systematic reviewSource accessed:
- Community herbal monograph on Commiphora molmol Engler, gummi-resinaEMA HMPC · 2011 · MonographSource accessed: