Can Frankincense Oil Help 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.

What does frankincense do?

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. Some of the benefits include:

• 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.
• Potentially reducing cancer cells while strengthening 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 is still being researched, and you should speak to your veterinarian or doctor before incorporating oils into your treatment plan.
• Easing digestive discomfort. In this 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 anti-depressive properties. These same feelings are activated in a pet’s brain, which can create an overall sense of calm for your pets.

 

How do you safely use frankincense for pets?

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. 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 other essential oils, including CBD oil and, as mentioned earlier, turmeric. I give my dogs full spectrum hemp extract with turmeric and frankincense every day and have seen a huge change in their inflammation, allergies, and even tumors. 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.

About Angela Ardolino

Angela Ardolino, a certified cannabis and fungi clinician, brings over 20 years of expertise to the field of holistic pet wellness. As a graduate of the inaugural Medical Cannabis for Therapeutic Use program at the University of Vermont School of Medicine, she is a passionate advocate for safe, natural, and ethically-grown whole plant and fungi medicine tailored for pets.

Committed to the highest standards, Angela continues to educate and inspire pet parents through her popular podcast, Your Natural Dog, where she hosts experts to discuss holistic pet care, natural remedies, nutrition, and training. Follow Angela Ardolino on her website, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to stay updated on her mission to educate and empower pet parents everywhere.