Search Results (72)

Frankincense is a natural oleo-gum resin obtained from several Boswellia tree species, playing important roles in supporting the spiritual, cultural, and socioeconomic livelihoods of communities across East Africa. Despite their cultural and economic value, the Ethiopian market still lacks scientifically based criteria to evaluate and properly classify this raw material, with traditional grading relying on gum size, color, collection area, and impurity content. Frankincense-derived essential oil value is much higher than that of gum, making this valorization route very enticing. This work compares the extraction potential and chemical profiles of hydrodistilled essential oils from various commercial grades and also different Ethiopian harvest locations (Afar, Humera, Assosa, Shire, Metema, South Omo, Borena and Jigjiga). The essential oils were extracted using hydrodistillation with a Clevenger-type apparatus, and their chemical composition was identified with GC-MS. The results revealed no substantial quantitative and qualitative differences among commercial grades, showing that essential oils can be obtained indiscriminately from classification. As for harvesting locations, both the extraction yield and essential oil compositions varied substantially. With the economic value of frankincense essential oil around six times that of the raw resin required to obtain it, these results show the importance of revising the commercial grading system to reflect chemical composition and promote the value-added processing of both black and white frankincense, rather than relying mainly on raw resin exports. Full article

The cultic violation of the “strange fire” offered to Yahweh by Nadab and Abihu in Leviticus 10:1–11 has long puzzled commentators. Similarly perplexing has been the apparently related prohibition of imbibing intoxicating liquids (v. 8) prescribed for all officiating priests following the debacle. This paper considers the episode in the broader context of the use of mind-altering substances in religious practices of the ancient Near East attested to in texts, iconography, and archaeology, and includes specific interaction with the recent discovery of cannabis at the Judahite temple of Arad, as well as potential material paraphernalia from other Late Bronze and Iron Age sites. These archaeological finds provide a backdrop for a discussion of competing incense traditions preserved in the priestly texts and support the proposition that the story may be understood as polemic against the use of mind-altering substances propagated by at least one state-sponsored priestly group, in contrast to common religious practices of those around them and perhaps rival factions within them. Full article

Frankincense, a traditional Chinese medicinal resin with well-documented skin barrier-protective and anti-inflammatory properties, has elusive underlying mechanisms in psoriasis-like dermatitis. This study aimed to elucidate its therapeutic potential and molecular targets by investigating frankincense oil extract (FOE) and three key constituents (linalool, α-pinene and 1-octanol) in a classic imiquimod-induced murine psoriasis model, with clinical first-line topical drugs (calcipotriol, tapinarof and dithranol) used as positive controls. Phenotypically, FOE and its constituents significantly ameliorated core psoriasis symptoms (desquamation, erythema, epidermal thickening and splenomegaly) at an efficacy comparable to that of positive controls. FOE suppressed epidermal hyperproliferation and dermal inflammatory infiltration, attenuated the abnormally elevated epidermal expression of TRPV3, β-catenin and COX-2, and increased the expression of the barrier protein K10. Taken together, these findings suggest that FOE restores impaired epidermal barrier function by regulating TRPV3, β-catenin, COX-2 and K10 expression, providing a novel mechanistic basis for the clinical application of traditional frankincense in psoriasis and identifying promising targets for antipsoriatic-drug development. Full article

In recent years, the emergence of drug-resistant pathogens and the limitations of current therapies have highlighted the need for innovative strategies to combat emerging viral infections. Natural compounds, derived from plants, are playing an increasingly significant role in the research of novel and effective therapies. Boswellia sacra, a frankincense-producing tree widely distributed in Yemen and Oman, and Nerium oleander, a common ornamental and medicinal plant, are examples of plants with well-documented antimicrobial properties. Their extracts have demonstrated good activity against a wide range of infections, which is attributed to the anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory compounds they contain. Based on these findings, we assessed, in vitro, the broad-spectrum antiviral activity of combined extracts obtained from Boswellia sacra and Nerium oleander. The extract mixture NOBS7(1) was found to be active against the respiratory virus RSV, Herpesvirus simplex type 1, and Coxsackievirus 5. Furthermore, a combination of cell-based assays was performed to provide additional insights into their potential mechanism of action. Full article

This study investigated the effects of supplementing a commercial milk replacer with Boswellia serrata resin (BSR), a natural frankincense extract rich in boswellic acids that possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, on the growth performance, serum biochemical parameters, and meat quality of suckling lambs. Twenty-four Assaf lambs were randomly assigned to three groups (n = 8 per group): natural suckling (NS), milk replacer (MR), and MR supplemented with BSR (MR+BSR). The experimental period lasted 60 days, during which growth performance and blood indices were evaluated, followed by meat quality assessment at the end of the trial. Lambs reared artificially (MR and MR+BSR) showed greater growth performance than naturally suckled lambs, as evidenced by significantly higher final body weight (p = 0.003) and average daily gain (p = 0.002), while initial body weight did not differ among treatments (p = 0.881). Within the artificially reared groups, however, BSR supplementation did not further increase growth relative to milk replacer alone. Supplementation with BSR improved the health and metabolic profile of lambs, resulting in higher serum total protein (p < 0.001), albumin (p < 0.001), and globulin (p < 0.001) concentrations. Moreover, BSR supplementation reduced the increase in aspartate aminotransferase (p < 0.001) and alanine aminotransferase (p < 0.001) activities observed in the MR group. No significant differences were detected in meat proximate composition (p > 0.05). However, meat from the NS group was significantly harder (p = 0.002) and more cohesive (p = 0.003) than meat from lambs fed MR or MR+BSR. In addition, the MR+BSR group produced meat with a higher redness (a*) value (p = 0.041), indicating an improved color quality. In conclusion, supplementing milk replacers with BSR enhanced the physiological and biochemical health of suckling lambs and enhanced specific meat quality traits, suggesting its potential as a natural functional additive in artificial rearing systems. Full article

Spent coffee grounds (SCGs), as a by-product, represent a sustainable source of bioactive components. Herein, the ethanol extract of SCGs was examined for its chemical characteristics and antimicrobial effect. The extract was incorporated into novel frankincense-based gums at concentrations of 0% (T0), 15% (T15), 20% (T20), and 25% (T25). The physicochemical properties and the antibacterial activity of the SCG-enriched gums against oral pathogens were assessed. SCG extract showed a total phenolic content of 999.38 ± 2.63 μg/g and demonstrated antioxidant activity with a 50% inhibitory concentration (IC₅₀) of 107.28 ± 1.90 μL/mL. T25 showed the highest phenolic content (256.66 ± 2.93 μg/g) and enhanced scavenging activity IC₅₀ = 211.05 ± 0.65 (DPPH) and 128.52 ± 4.05 μL/mL (ABTS). T25 demonstrated superior antimicrobial effects against Streptococcus mutans and Enterococcus faecalis at 400 µL/mL, with inhibition zones of 33.33 ± 2.89 and 20.33 ± 0.58 mm compared to T0. Both T25 and T0 inhibited Lactobacillus acidophilus similarly. Overall, incorporating SCG extract into natural frankincense-based gum presents a promising biodegradable functional gum with potential oral health benefits. Full article

This study evaluated the effects of chitosan composite edible coatings with frankincense essential oil on microbial growth and strawberry quality. Four coatings were prepared using 1% and 3% chitosan aqueous solutions, with or without 1% (v/v) frankincense essential oil derived from Boswellia sacra. Fresh strawberries were coated with chitosan and chitosan–frankincense solutions and stored under controlled conditions for eight days. The physical properties of strawberries, such as color, texture, moisture content, pH, and total soluble solids, were evaluated throughout the storage period. Results indicated that neither chitosan nor chitosan–frankincense oil coatings significantly altered the physical properties of the strawberries, such as the color, pH, moisture content, total soluble solids, and hardness at each time point. However, a significant effect of time (2-way ANOVA, p < 0.05) was observed on pH, TSS, color and hardness characteristics of strawberries. All tested coatings effectively inhibited bacterial growth. The strawberries covered with 3% chitosan–frankincense oil coating had the lowest bacterial count (74 CFU/mL). The addition of frankincense to 1% of chitosan significantly reduced the number of bacteria by 1.6-fold. Additionally, chitosan–frankincense oil films significantly reduced the growth of E. coli compared to both the chitosan film and the control. These findings suggest that chitosan combined with frankincense oil can serve as an effective natural alternative for edible coating in food preservation, offering both antimicrobial benefits and quality retention during storage. Full article

Efforts to enhance the mechanical and physicochemical properties of conventional glass ionomer cement (GIC) are ongoing. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of incorporating varying concentrations of frankincense and myrrh liquids into conventional GIC on its microhardness and sealing ability. Frankincense and myrrh liquids were prepared by dissolving 25 g of each ground resin in 50 mL of distilled water at 60 °C and allowing the solutions to stand for 8 h. Five experimental groups were evaluated: Group A (conventional GIC), Group B (15% frankincense-modified GIC), Group C (25% frankincense-modified GIC), Group D (15% myrrh-modified GIC), and Group E (25% myrrh-modified GIC). Microhardness was evaluated using a Vickers hardness tester, and sealing ability was evaluated via interfacial gap measurements using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). SEM analysis revealed that all modified GIC groups exhibited significantly smaller interfacial gap sizes (Groups B–E: 6.1, 5.22, 5.9, and 5.34 µm, respectively) compared to conventional GIC (Group A: 6.88 µm). However, there were no statistically significant differences in microhardness among the groups (p > 0.5). The incorporation of 15% and 25% concentrations of frankincense or myrrh liquids into conventional GIC significantly improved sealing ability without compromising hardness. Full article

Background: Acute mountain sickness (AMS) is a prevalent and potentially life-threatening condition caused by rapid exposure to high-altitude hypoxia, affecting pulmonary and neurological functions. Tongqiao Jiuxin Oil (TQ), a traditional Chinese medicine formula composed of aromatic and resinous ingredients such as sandalwood, agarwood, frankincense, borneol, and musk, has been widely used in the treatment of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disorders. Clinical observations suggest its potential efficacy against AMS, yet its pharmacological mechanisms remain poorly understood. Methods: The chemical profile of TQ was characterized using UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap HRMS. Network pharmacology was applied to predict the potential targets and pathways involved in AMS. A rat model of AMS was established by exposing animals to hypobaric hypoxia (~10% oxygen), simulating an altitude of approximately 5500 m. TQ was administered at varying doses. Physiological indices, oxidative stress markers (MDA, SOD, GSH), histopathological changes, and the expression of hypoxia- and apoptosis-related proteins (HIF-1α, VEGFA, EPO, Bax, Bcl-2, Caspase-3) in lung and brain tissues were assessed. Results: A total of 774 chemical constituents were identified from TQ. Network pharmacology predicted the involvement of multiple targets and pathways. TQ significantly improved arterial oxygenation and reduced histopathological damage in both lung and brain tissues. It enhanced antioxidant activity by elevating SOD and GSH levels and reducing MDA content. Mechanistically, TQ downregulated the expression of HIF-1α, VEGFA, EPO, and pro-apoptotic markers (Bax/Bcl-2 ratio, Caspase-3), while upregulated Bcl-2, the anti-apoptotic protein expression. Conclusions: TQ exerts protective effects against AMS-induced tissue injury by improving oxygen homeostasis, alleviating oxidative stress, and modulating hypoxia-related and apoptotic signaling pathways. This study provides pharmacological evidence supporting the potential of TQ as a promising candidate for AMS intervention, as well as the modern research method for multi-component traditional Chinese medicine. Full article

Background: Scald burns pose significant morbidity, and effective topical treatments remain a clinical priority. Burn injuries pose a significant clinical challenge due to the prolonged inflammation and high infection risk. Traditional treatments focus on moisture retention and infection prevention, but biocompatible formulations such as hydrogels and oleogels offer advantages. Hydrogels hydrate, cool, and promote epidermal regeneration, while oleogels form a lipid barrier that enhances the absorption of lipophilic bioactive compounds. There is an increasing demand for novel topical alternatives that can effectively improve wound healing by modulating the inflammatory cascade, accelerating epithelial and dermal regeneration, and restoring barrier function. Objective: This study aimed to determine the most effective plant-based topical formulations for enhancing second-degree scald burn wound healing. Methods: Utilizing a standardized rat model, we compared 21 distinct topical formulations, consisting of oleogel and hydrogel bases enriched with extracts from Boswellia serrata (frankincense), Ocimum basilicum (basil), Sambucus nigra flower (elderflower), and Galium verum (lady’s bedstraw). Second-degree burns were uniformly induced in 24 Wistar rats using boiling water (100 °C for 8 s) using the RAPID-3D device, a validated 3D-printed tool that ensures reproducible burns through controlled exposure to boiling water. Post-burn, rats were divided into three equal subgroups, and topical formulations were applied daily. Wound healing efficacy was evaluated through wound surface area measurements, transepidermal water loss (TEWL), skin hydration, sebum production, pigmentation, inflammation (erythema), skin perfusion, and histological parameters at multiple timepoints (days 1, 4, 9, 14, and 21 post-burn induction). Results: Statistical analyses indicated significant advantages of oleogel-based formulations over hydrogel-based formulations. Specifically, formulations containing Boswellia serrata and Ocimum basilicum extracts significantly reduced wound size and inflammation, improved skin hydration, and decreased melanin production by days 9 and 21 (p < 0.05). Conclusions: These findings underscore the potential clinical value of oleogel-based topical preparations containing specific plant extracts for improving scald burn wound healing outcomes, warranting further clinical evaluation. Full article

Background/Objective: Breast cancer remains the most common malignancy among women worldwide, contributing to high morbidity and mortality rates. Many anti-cancer drugs have been derived from medicinal plants, and frankincense from Boswellia carterii is notable for its anti-inflammatory, anti-neoplastic, and anti-carcinogenic properties. Using gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS), 48 components were identified in B. carterii essential oil, and the major constituent was α-pinene (35.81%). Method: In this study, we investigated the anti-tumor effects of frankincense essential oil (FEO) and its nano-formulation with chitosan (FEO-CSNPs) using in vitro breast cancer models (MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and 4T1 cells) and in vivo mouse mammary carcinoma (4T1) models (Balb/c). Results: The results showed significant reductions in cell viability. At 10 μg/mL, the FEO showed the highest reduction in the C-166 cells, while at 100 μg/mL, the FEO exhibited a stronger cytotoxicity in the MDA-MB-231 and 4T1 cells compared to the FEO-CSNPs and CSNPs. The FEO-CSNPs exhibited cell growth arrest in the S, G2/M, and G1/S phases in the MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and 4T1 cell lines (36.91%, 23.12%, and 33.58%), in addition to increased apoptosis rates in the MCF-7, MDA-MB-231, and 4T1 cell lines (33.04%, 36.39%, and 42.19%). The wound healing assays revealed a decreased migratory ability in the treated cells. The in vivo experiments in the balb/c mice demonstrated a reduction in the tumor volume, with a histopathological analysis confirming extensive tumor necrosis. Moreover, the FEO and FEO-CSNPs showed notable antioxidant and arginase activity. The gene expression analysis via qPCR indicated the upregulation of tumor suppressor genes and the downregulation of oncogenes. Conclusions: These findings suggest that FEO and its nano-formulation, particularly in the form of FEO-CSNPs as an oral formulation, display enhanced efficacy, warranting further preclinical and clinical research to develop innovative treatment strategies. Full article

Frankincense resin (Boswellia serrata), native to arid regions of India, the Middle East, and parts of Africa, has been highly valued for its medicinal properties. This study evaluated the antimicrobial potential of methanolic extracts of Boswellia serrata resin against Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Listeria monocytogenes. High-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) coupled with bioautography identified bioactive zones, while Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS) quantified the phenolic and terpenoid compounds. The cytotoxicity was assessed on HaCaT human keratinocyte cells to evaluate the safety for dermatological applications. The results demonstrated significant antibacterial activity, particularly against S. aureus and L. monocytogenes. The bioautograms revealed that samples from central and southern Serbia showed the highest antimicrobial effect against the tested bacterial strains. The active compounds included 11-keto-β-boswellic acid (up to 3733.96 μg/g), gallic acid (110.93 μg/g), and naringenin (53.13 μg/g). Cytotoxicity assays confirmed non-toxic effects at 10 µg/mL, with sample 6 enhancing the keratinocyte viability by 137%, while higher concentrations (50 µg/mL) showed variable cytotoxicity. These findings highlight the potential of B. serrata resin as a natural antimicrobial agent, particularly against antibiotic-resistant pathogens. Its therapeutic applicability in pharmaceutical and cosmetic formulations is promising provided that dosing ensures a balance between efficacy and safety. Full article

Background/Objectives: Wound healing is a complex process involving inflammation, oxidative stress, immune modulation, and tissue regeneration. Frankincense essential oil (FEO), derived from Boswellia species, is known for its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and therapeutic properties. This study investigates the protective effects of FEO in an excision wound model in rats, focusing on oxidative stress reduction, inflammatory cytokine modulation, and caspase-3 regulation. Methods: The chemical composition of FEO was analyzed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Rats with excision wounds were treated with FEO, and its efficacy was assessed using biochemical and histological analyses. Caspase-3 expression, IL-1β, TNF-α, and CD68 levels were measured, along with oxidative stress markers. Wound contraction, epithelialization and collagen synthesis were also evaluated. Immunohistochemical and histopathological assessments were performed to analyze inflammatory infiltration and tissue remodeling. Results: FEO, rich in alpha-phellandrene (10.52%) and limonene (7.31%), significantly downregulated caspase-3, reducing apoptosis in the wound environment. It also lowered IL-1β and TNF-α levels, confirming anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, FEO modulated CD68 expression, shifting the wound environment from inflammatory to healing. The oil antioxidant activity reduced oxidative stress, limiting caspase-3-mediated apoptosis and enhancing cell survival. FEO treatment accelerated wound contraction, improved epithelialization, and increased collagen synthesis. Histological analysis revealed reduced inflammatory infiltration and enhanced tissue remodeling. Conclusions: FEO integrates anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic mechanisms to promote wound healing and tissue repair. Its ability to modulate caspase-3, IL-1β, TNF-α, CD68, and oxidative stress markers along with its major constituents such as alpha-phellandrene and limonene highlights its potential as a natural therapeutic agent for wound management and regenerative medicine. Full article

Colorectal cancer (CRC) ranks among the most frequently diagnosed malignancies and is associated with a significantly high mortality rate. In recent years, increasing attention has been directed toward naturally derived substances with anticancer properties. In our study, we focused on determining the biological and antibacterial effects of selected essential oils (EOs)—peppermint, oregano, tea tree, lemon, lavender, frankincense, and oil blends (Zengest and OnGuard). Analyses were performed on human colon carcinoma cell lines (HCT-116 and HT-29). The cytotoxic (MTT assay), genotoxic effects (comet assay), and reactive oxygen species levels (ROS-Glo™ H₂O₂ Assay) of EOs and oil blends were determined. In our study, we found that all of the studied oils have the potential cyto/genotoxic effects on CRC cell lines after 24 h exposure. The results revealed that oregano, Zengest, and frankincense showed statistically the highest cytotoxic effects [IC₅₀ 0.05 µg/mL] compared to the other studied oils. These oils induced DNA damage and also increased ROS levels. On the other hand, peppermint was shown to have the lowest cytotoxic effect [IC₅₀ 0.67 µg/mL] on the HT-29 cell line. We also evaluated the antibacterial effects of oregano, tea tree, and the OnGuard blend, determining their impact on the viability of beneficial bacteria models, including Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus, Lactiplantibacillus plantarum, Lacticaseibacillus paracasei, Lactobacillus brevis, Lactobacillus pentosus, and Weizmannia coagulans. Oregano exhibited strong antibacterial activity, with an inhibition zone of 31 mm, while tea tree and OnGuard showed inhibition zones ranging from 12 to 15 mm. The EOs (oregano, tea tree, OnGuard) demonstrated antibacterial effects, with MICs ranging from 0.05 to 0.5 µg/mL. Peppermint, lemon, lavender, frankincense, and the Zengest blend did not inhibit the growth of lactic acid bacteria or W. coagulans, and thus did not impact bacterial survival. On the other hand, they demonstrated potential anticancer effects. Full article