Does frankincense make the fetus more beautiful Learn about the benefits and risks

Frankincense (also known as Boswellia) has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various health conditions. However, one lesser-known claim that's gained popularity among expectant mothers is its supposed effect on enhancing a baby’s facial features and skin clarity during pregnancy.But is there any truth to this belief? Can frankincense really influence your baby’s beauty — or is it just a cultural myth passed down through generations?In this Daleely Medical guide, we explore everything you need to know about using frankincense during pregnancy — from its potential beauty benefits to safe usage methods and possible risks for both you and your baby. Backed by expert opinions and real mom experiences, this article gives you the full picture and golden tips to help you make informed decisions throughout your pregnancy journey.

Is Frankincense Really Beneficial for Fetal Development?

Many women believe that frankincense (luban dhakar or Boswellia) can enhance a baby's beauty or boost fetal growth during pregnancy. But what’s the truth?

The Facts:
There is currently no scientific evidence proving that frankincense can alter a baby’s features or increase their beauty.

However, it may benefit the mother, which indirectly supports the baby's health. For example, frankincense may:

Boost the immune system
Reduce inflammation
Aid digestion

✨ So, while the benefits are mainly for the mother, they can indirectly support healthy fetal development — not appearance or beauty directly.

Can Pregnant Women Chew Frankincense?

No, chewing frankincense during pregnancy is not recommended. Here's why:

It contains concentrated essential oils that may irritate the body.
Chewing it could cause:
- Uterine contractions
- Stomach upset or irritation

Frankincense and Baby Beauty: Myth or Reality?

Many moms turn to natural remedies during pregnancy to enhance their baby’s appearance and overall health. Frankincense is among the most popular, but do the claims hold up? Let’s explore the most commonly believed benefits:

1. Brightening the Baby’s Skin

Some believe that drinking a light frankincense infusion in the second trimester helps brighten the baby’s complexion, thanks to its natural antioxidants.

2. Enhancing Nutrient Absorption

Frankincense is rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium, which may support healthy fetal development — possibly reflected in glowing skin or stronger features.

3. Stimulating Natural Collagen Production

It’s said to boost collagen in the mother’s body, and some believe this also supports healthy skin development in the baby.

4. Cleansing the Mother’s Body

Frankincense may support liver and kidney detoxification, improving blood flow and nutrient delivery to the fetus.

5. Boosting Immunity

It contains immune-boosting compounds that help fight inflammation — which may help ensure a healthy pregnancy and stronger baby.

6. Giving Baby Soft Skin and a Pleasant Natural Scent

Some women claim it helps the baby develop soft, fragrant skin due to its aromatic and purifying properties.

7. Preventing Skin Issues After Birth

Its antibacterial properties may reduce the chance of rashes or baby acne after birth.

8. Enhancing Eye Brightness

There’s a popular belief that frankincense improves blood circulation, resulting in wide, bright eyes for the newborn.

9. Supporting Brain Development and Intelligence

One of the most shared claims: that frankincense helps boost fetal brain growth, leading to better focus and intelligence.

10. Strengthening the Baby’s Hair

Some moms say regular use leads to thicker, shinier baby hair at birth.

11. Improving the Mother’s Skin Too

Frankincense may help reduce pigmentation and boost circulation, benefiting the mother’s skin and mental well-being during pregnancy.

12. Evening Out the Baby’s Skin Tone

One of the most widespread beliefs is that drinking frankincense tea in moderation during early pregnancy may help even out the baby's skin tone.

⚠️ Important Note: While these benefits are popular in traditional culture, they’re not scientifically proven. Always consult your doctor before using frankincense during pregnancy.

✨ Additional Believed Benefits of Frankincense for the Baby’s Appearance and Health

Many traditional beliefs surround frankincense (luban dhakar) during pregnancy. While these claims aren’t scientifically proven, they are widely shared among mothers:

13. Calm Facial Features

Some believe that the calming properties of frankincense may reflect on the fetus, helping the baby develop soft and peaceful facial features.

14. Strengthening the Baby’s Respiratory System

It’s commonly believed that frankincense supports healthy lung development, promoting better breathing after birth.

15. Reducing the Effects of Maternal Stress

By calming the mother’s nervous system, frankincense may help shield the baby from stress, possibly benefiting their skin tone and overall temperament.

16. Hydrated and Glowing Skin

Due to its antioxidant content, frankincense is thought to help keep the baby's skin hydrated and soft, promoting a healthy appearance at birth.

17. Improving the Baby’s Smile

Some anecdotes humorously suggest that frankincense may contribute to a more defined and pleasant baby smile, thanks to its supposed effect on facial development.

How to Use Frankincense Safely During Pregnancy (Only With Doctor’s Approval)

Although many benefits are believed, you must consult your doctor before using frankincense during pregnancy. It contains essential oils that may not be suitable for all pregnant women. If approved, here are the safest ways to prepare it:

Basic Light Infusion – Safe Throughout Pregnancy (Doctor-Approved Only)

Purpose: Light detox, hydration, natural relaxation

Ingredients:

½ teaspoon frankincense (clean, whole resin)
1½ cups boiling water

Instructions:

Rinse the resin thoroughly.
Soak in boiling water for 4–6 hours (or overnight).
Strain and use only the water.
Drink lukewarm, once per week only on an empty stomach.

⚠️ Note: Do not increase the quantity or frequency.

Frankincense + Rose Water (for calming and better sleep)

Purpose: Relaxation, stress relief, better sleep

Ingredients:

3–4 frankincense pieces
½ cup warm water
1 tsp rose water

Instructions:

Soak the frankincense in warm water for 3 hours.
Strain and add rose water.
Drink lukewarm before bedtime, once per week.

Frankincense with Honey (for immune support)

Purpose: Boost immunity, reduce inflammation, gentle energy

Ingredients:

¼ teaspoon frankincense water (infusion only, not resin)
½ teaspoon raw honey
1 cup warm water

Instructions:

Mix the strained frankincense water with honey and warm water.
Drink after breakfast, once every 10 days.

⚠️ Avoid if you have a sensitive stomach — never drink it on an empty stomach.

Frankincense + Barley Water (for swelling and water retention)

Purpose: Reduce bloating, support kidney function, natural diuretic

Ingredients:

½ teaspoon frankincense
½ cup plain water
½ cup boiled barley water

Instructions:

Soak frankincense in plain water for 4 hours.
Strain and add cooled barley water.
Drink cold or lukewarm, once every 10 days.

Late Pregnancy Frankincense Drink (safe for the final trimester)

Purpose: Gentle hydration, immunity support, reduce water retention

Ingredients:

½ teaspoon frankincense
1½ cups boiling water

Instructions:

Soak in hot water for 4–5 hours.
Strain and drink once per week only during the last months of pregnancy.

⚠️ Important: Do not make the mixture too concentrated or consume more than recommended.

Natural Frankincense Drink Recipes for Pregnancy Wellness

All recipes must be used only with medical approval.

Frankincense + Raw Honey (Immune Support & Anti-Inflammatory)

Purpose: Boosts immunity – Calms inflammation
Ingredients:

½ tsp frankincense
1 cup boiling water
1 tsp raw honey

Instructions:

Soak the frankincense in boiling water for 5 hours.
Strain well.
Add honey and drink in the morning after breakfast.

✅ Use once a week only.

Frankincense + Rose Water (Sleep Aid & Nerve Soothing)

Purpose: Improves sleep quality – Reduces anxiety
Ingredients:

3 frankincense pieces
½ cup water
1 tsp rose water

Instructions:

Soak frankincense for 3–4 hours.
Strain, add rose water.
Drink before bed.

✅ Especially helpful in the third trimester.

Frankincense + Cinnamon (Circulation Booster)

Purpose: Enhances blood flow – Strengthens immunity
Ingredients:

½ tsp frankincense
¼ small cinnamon stick
1 cup hot water

Instructions:

Soak both ingredients for 4–6 hours.
Strain and drink warm.

✅ Use once every 10 days – Cinnamon is safe only after the 7th month.

Frankincense + Thyme (Respiratory Cleanse)

Purpose: Cold resistance – Respiratory support
Ingredients:

½ tsp frankincense
A small pinch of dried thyme
1 cup hot water

Instructions:

Soak the mix for 4 hours.
Strain and drink warm.

⚠️ Not suitable for women with high blood pressure.

???? Frankincense + Barley Water + Honey (For Bloating & Digestion)

Purpose: Reduces water retention – Aids digestion
Ingredients:

½ tsp frankincense
½ cup boiled barley water
½ cup lukewarm water
1 tsp honey (optional)

Instructions:

Soak frankincense in lukewarm water for 5 hours.
After straining, mix in barley water and honey.
Drink cold.

✅ Excellent for pregnant women experiencing mild hand or foot swelling.

Frankincense + Natural Rose Water Mix (Hydration & Stomach Soothing)

Purpose: Hydrates body – Soothes stomach
Ingredients:

½ tsp frankincense
½ cup lukewarm water + ½ cup rose water

Instructions:

Soak frankincense for 6 hours.
Add rose water before drinking and consume cold.

✅ Best taken once per week only.

Frankincense + Lemon Drops (Immunity Boost & Anti-Bloating)

Purpose: Strengthens immunity – Reduces bloating
Ingredients:

½ tsp frankincense
1 cup warm water
3 drops of fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

Soak frankincense for 5 hours.
Add lemon drops before drinking.

⚠️ Not suitable for pregnant women with heartburn or acid reflux.

⚠️ Frankincense + Licorice (Only for Those Without High Blood Pressure)

Purpose: Liver detox – Stomach soothing
Ingredients:

½ tsp frankincense
1 tsp licorice root
1 cup cold water

Instructions:

Soak the mixture for 4–5 hours.
Strain and drink cold or lukewarm.

❌ Strictly prohibited for women with high blood pressure.

✅ Important Notes When Using Frankincense During Pregnancy:

Only use with your gynecologist’s approval.
Never exceed once a week.
Use small, diluted amounts and sip slowly.
Avoid recipes containing cinnamon or thyme during the first trimester.

❌ Potential Risks of Frankincense During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

While frankincense (also known as olibanum or Boswellia resin) is praised for its healing and beauty-enhancing properties, it must be used very cautiously during pregnancy. Some active compounds may pose risks to both mother and baby—especially if used excessively or in high concentrations.

1. ⚠️ Risk of Uterine Contractions

Frankincense contains compounds that may stimulate uterine muscles, increasing the risk of:

Miscarriage in early pregnancy
Preterm labor or contractions in later stages

2. ⛔ May Inhibit Nutrient Absorption

Overconsumption can interfere with the absorption of key minerals like:

Iron
Zinc
This may negatively impact fetal growth and development.

3. Digestive Issues

Taking it on an empty stomach or in strong concentrations can cause:

Nausea
Heartburn
Digestive upset
Which may reduce appetite and affect maternal nutrition.

4. Risk of Allergic Reactions

Some pregnant women may experience:

Skin rashes
Itching
Swelling
Breathing difficulty (in case of frankincense allergy)

5. ❓ Unknown Effects on the Fetus

There are not enough studies confirming frankincense’s safety for unborn babies.

Some resin acids may cross the placenta, possibly affecting the fetal liver or kidneys in rare cases.

6. ⚠️ Interactions with Pregnancy Medications

Frankincense may interfere with:

Blood pressure medications
Blood sugar regulators
This could put both mother and baby at risk.

7. Overuse Doesn’t Mean a “More Beautiful Baby”

The myth that it enhances the baby's appearance is not medically proven.
Excessive use may actually lead to:

Dehydrated skin
Fatigue
In some cases, increased risk of preeclampsia (pregnancy-related hypertension)

8. Potential Hormonal Effects

Some studies suggest frankincense might impact hormonal balance, possibly causing:

Mood swings
Disruption in fetal hormonal development

9. Skin Dryness Instead of Hydration

Frequent use of frankincense water topically may:

Dry out the skin
Cause irritation, especially for women with sensitive skin

10. ⚠️ Risk of Contaminated Commercial Frankincense

Some store-bought types may contain:

Impurities
Pesticide residues
Contaminants
These could enter the bloodstream and potentially affect the fetus.

11. Strain on Liver & Kidneys

Daily or high-dose use puts pressure on:

The liver
The kidneys
Impacting the body's ability to filter toxins from the blood—affecting blood quality going to the fetus.

12. ⬇️ Excessive Blood Sugar Reduction

Frankincense may lower blood sugar, which could cause:

Dizziness
Weakness
Fatigue
And potentially reduce nutrient delivery to the fetus.

13. ⚠️ Increased Risk of Preterm Labor

Overuse may stimulate the uterus, increasing the chance of:

Early labor
Impaired fetal growth due to reduced placental blood flow

✅ Frankincense During Pregnancy: 7 Golden Tips to Protect You and Your Baby

Despite its many skin and health benefits, using frankincense during pregnancy requires great caution and medical supervision. Here are the most important safety tips for using it effectively and safely:

1. Do Not Use Without Consulting Your Doctor

In the first trimester, frankincense is strictly prohibited as it may stimulate uterine contractions.
It is safer to wait until the seventh month, and even then, use very small amounts under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

2. Use as Occasional Support – Not as a Daily Remedy

Daily consumption is not recommended.
Twice per week is the maximum safe frequency.
Avoid drinking it on an empty stomach, especially if you experience:
- Morning sickness
- Acid reflux

3. Test for Skin Sensitivity Before Topical Use

Before applying frankincense water or oil to your skin, test a small amount on the inner forearm.
If you notice redness, itching, or irritation, stop immediately.
This is especially important because pregnancy increases skin sensitivity.

4. Choose Pure and Authentic Frankincense

Avoid cheap varieties or those mixed with artificial scents.
Choose high-quality frankincense like the “Hojari” (transparent, silvery type).
The purer the product, the better the effect and lower the risks.

5. Topical Use Guidelines

Mix frankincense water with pregnancy-safe oils like:
- Sweet almond oil
- Olive oil
Do not apply directly to:
- The belly during early pregnancy
- The breasts if you're breastfeeding or sensitive

☀️ 6. Avoid Sun Exposure After Use

Whether used internally or topically, frankincense may increase photosensitivity.
Avoid direct sun exposure to prevent:
- Dark spots
- Skin pigmentation

7. Drink Plenty of Water

Frankincense aids in detoxifying the body.
Drinking adequate water helps:
- Boost its positive effects
- Prevent constipation or dehydration

✅ Quick Summary:

Frankincense can be helpful during pregnancy if used cautiously and correctly. Always consult your doctor and use only pure, safe sources.

Safe Usage Chart for Frankincense During Pregnancy

Pregnancy Stage	Is it Safe to Use?	Safe Usage Method	Allowed Frequency	⚠️ Key Notes
Months 1–3 (First Trimester)	❌ Not Recommended	Completely prohibited due to risk of stimulating uterine contractions	0 times	High miscarriage risk – avoid completely
Months 4–6 (Second Trimester)	⚠️ With Caution	Very mild infusion:
• ¼ tsp frankincense + 1.5 cups hot water
• Soak and drink warm after meals	1 time every 10 days	Avoid if you have high blood pressure or diabetes
Month 7	✅ Allowed in Mild Amounts	Simple recipe for fluid retention:
• ½ tsp frankincense + hot water
• Soak 5 hours and drink warm	1–2 times	Do not drink on an empty stomach – after a light meal is better
Month 8	✅ Moderately Safe	Immune or digestive support:
• With honey or rose water before bed	Up to 2 times	Allergy test is essential before skin application
Month 9	✅ Helpful in Specific Cases	Relaxation and labor preparation:
• With rose water or thyme (if BP is normal)
• Drink before bed	2–3 times	Stop if strong contractions begin – avoid in final week without medical advice

???? Dosage & Ingredient Guidelines by Pregnancy Stage

Trimester / Month	Daily Safe Dose	Max Weekly Usage	Allowed Additives	❌ Forbidden Ingredients
Months 1–3	❌ Not Allowed	0 times	❌ None	Frankincense – Honey – Cinnamon – Thyme
Month 4	¼ tsp/week only	1 time only	Boiled water only	Thyme – Cinnamon – Licorice – Lemon
Months 5–6	½ tsp per time	1 time every 10 days	Water – Honey – Rose water (in small amounts)	Cinnamon – Licorice – Excess Thyme
Month 7	½ tsp × 2	Max 2 times	Water – Honey – Barley water – Rose water	Avoid on empty stomach – Don't mix too many things
Month 8	½–¾ tsp × 2	Only 2 times	Honey – Barley water – Rose water – Thyme (just a pinch)	Cinnamon – Licorice
Month 9	Up to 1 tsp divided	Max 2–3 times	Warm water – Rose water – Thyme – Light honey	Any hot/spicy or strong diuretics like cinnamon

Detailed Use by Trimester:

❌ First Trimester (Months 1–3):

Why avoid it? Frankincense contains resin acids that may stimulate the uterus.
Result: Risk of miscarriage or bleeding.

⚠️ Second Trimester (Months 4–6):

Concentration: Extremely mild.
How to use:
- ¼–½ tsp frankincense
- Soaked in 1.5 cups hot water for 5–6 hours
- Drink after meals (never on an empty stomach)
Safe Additions: Small amount of rose water or pure honey

✅ Third Trimester (Months 7–9):

Concentration: Moderate, but still cautious
Suggested recipes:
- Water + frankincense (½ tsp soaked 6 hrs – drink warm)
- Frankincense + rose water (for bedtime relaxation)
- Frankincense + barley water + honey (to reduce swelling)
Frequency: Max 2 times per week (up to 3 times in Month 9 with doctor’s approval)