Frankincense oil has long been used for its medicinal properties, and now it has been found to be beneficial for treating skin cancer. The healing power of frankincense oil has been studied for many years, and the results have been encouraging. This article will discuss the healing properties of frankincense oil, how it can be used to help treat skin cancer, and the potential side effects that may accompany its use. We will also explore the scientific evidence that supports its use for treating skin cancer. Finally, we will discuss the importance of consulting a doctor before attempting to treat any medical condition with natural remedies.
Is there scientific evidence that frankincense oil can effectively treat skin cancer?
At this time, there is not enough scientific evidence to definitively state that frankincense oil can effectively treat skin cancer. Although some studies have suggested that certain compounds found in frankincense oil may have anti-cancer properties, more research is needed.
What are the potential benefits of using frankincense oil for skin cancer?
Frankincense oil is widely used for its potential health benefits. For skin cancer, it is believed to help reduce inflammation, boost immunity, and reduce the risk of skin cancer. It also may help to reduce scarring and promote healing of damaged skin. Frankincense oil may also be beneficial for preventing the growth of cancerous cells. Additionally, it has anti-aging properties and may help to improve the appearance of wrinkles and other signs of aging.
How often should frankincense oil be used to treat skin cancer?
Frankincense oil should be applied topically to the affected area twice a day for best results. It is important to consult a doctor before using frankincense oil to treat skin cancer.
Are there any side effects associated with using frankincense oil on skin cancer?
Yes, there are some potential side effects associated with using frankincense oil on skin cancer. While frankincense oil is generally considered safe when used on the skin, it can cause skin irritation, redness, and itching in some people. It is also important to note that frankincense oil should not be used on open wounds or broken skin, as it may cause further irritation. Additionally, using frankincense oil on skin cancer may interfere with the effectiveness of topical treatments prescribed by a doctor.
Are there any other natural treatments that can be used in conjunction with frankincense oil to treat skin cancer?
Yes, there are other natural treatments that can be used in conjunction with frankincense oil to treat skin cancer. These include dietary changes such as increasing intake of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, using herbs and spices such as turmeric and ginger, and using topical treatments such as aloe vera and coconut oil. Additionally, lifestyle changes such as avoiding exposure to the sun and increasing exercise can help to support the body’s natural ability to fight cancer.
Although the majority of patients with skin cancer undergo conventional treatment under the direction of a dermatologist, some patients will instead use alternative botanical treatments exclusively. Janet Y. Li, MD, and Jeremy T. Li and Kampp reviewed several herbal supplements for skin cancer, in addition to providing background information on each of them. Bloodroot and zinc chloride, the primary ingredients in black salve, cause localized tissue necrosis. Sanguinarine, which is the active ingredient in bloodroot, has been shown in mouse models to induce apoptosis and cytotoxicity in melanoma cells, but no clinical trials have studied its efficacy and safety. However, there are many case reports of serious adverse effects from black salve skin cancer therapy. Of the published case reports on black salve treatment of basal cell carcinoma BCC , squamous cell carcinoma SCC , and melanoma lesions in 13 patients, 8 BCC lesions and 1 SCC lesion attained a complete response 6 were biopsy proven. Almost all patients experienced serious side effects, such as pain, ulceration, and scarring. Rating Given the inconsistent evidence and the severity of adverse effects, black salve scored a D recommendation. These glycosides are derived from the Solanaceae family, which includes tomatoes, potatoes, bell peppers, and eggplant. They attach to the surface of cancer cells, but not normal tissue, and initiate apoptosis. Creams containing solasodine rhamnosyl glycosides are licensed in Australia and the U. No serious adverse effects were reported. Rating Solasodine glycosides, because of the inconsistent results associated with them, scored a D recommendation. Derived from the Boswellia tree, frankincense contains boswellic acid, which induces apoptosis, as shown in animal studies. In humans, only 1 case study, in a middle-aged man with 2 BCC lesions, was reported in the current literature review. Treatment-associated allergic contact dermatitis has been reported. Rating Because only 1 case study could be found, frankincense received a D recommendation. Cannabinoids have shown melanoma and nonmelanoma antitumor effects in preclinical studies of mouse and human melanoma cell lines. Among the results, synthetic cannabinoids lead to apoptosis, impaired angiogenesis, and inhibition of epidermal growth factor receptor, as well as decreased adhesion of melanoma cells to brain endothelial cells and impaired transendothelial migration of melanoma cells. Tetrahydrocannabinol THC was shown to induce apoptosis in melanoma cells and decrease cell viability, and also demonstrated decreased melanoma cell proliferation, angiogenesis, and metastasis. Rating Various brands of cannabis oil are promoted to heal a wide array of medical diseases, from multiple sclerosis to depression, but there are no clinical trials to support any claims. This dearth of clinical evidence therefore earned topical use of cannabinoids a D recommendation. In the only skin cancer study thus far, use of black raspberry extract after ultraviolet B exposure reduced the number and size of skin cancer tumors in mice. However, no clinical trials in humans have been conducted, and no adverse effects associated with black raspberry have been reported. Silibinin, a flavonoid isolated from milk thistle seed, induces apoptosis in mouse BCC cell lines and inhibits BCC tumor growth in mice. Even though milk thistle or its active compounds have been reported as skin cancer therapy, no clinical trials in humans have been conducted. No adverse effects associated with topical milk thistle have been reported. Rating As with several of the other skin cancer herbals evaluated, Drs. Li and Kampp found no clinical evidence of the effectiveness of milk thistle or its active compounds. It, too, gets a D recommendation. Hypericin is an active ingredient in St. One pilot study conducted in 34 patients showed, after weekly treatment with St. However, no RCTs have studied the efficacy or safety of St. Rating The jury is still out due to inconclusive evidence of efficacy. Therefore, topical use of St. Curcumin, a derivative of turmeric, induces apoptosis and inhibits in vitro melanoma cell migration and invasion in preclinical studies. However, no clinical studies show that curcumin is efficacious in treating nonmelanoma skin cancer. Allergic contact dermatitis, contact urticaria, and pruritus have been reported with the use of topical turmeric. Rating Another D recommendation, again thanks to the lack of clinical evidence. So why do patients continue to purchase them? It is important for physicians to be aware of these alternative therapies and to maintain an open dialog with patients. Sign Up. Career Center. This content was created by Everyday Health Media on behalf of an advertiser. More Information. Content on this page was created by the Everyday Health Media team and is funded by an advertiser. The advertiser may select the specialty area but does not edit or approve the content.