A Glimpse into History

Frankincense, derived from the Boswellia tree genus native to the Arabian Peninsula, Somalia, and parts of Africa, holds a prominent place in ancient history. Dating back at least 7000 years, it was prized by civilizations such as the ancient Egyptians, Babylonians, Greeks, and Romans.

In ancient Egypt, frankincense held immense religious and ceremonial importance. It was burned as incense in temples dedicated to various gods and goddesses, including Ra and Isis. Egyptians also used frankincense in the embalming process as a symbol of purification and preservation for the afterlife. In the classical civilisations of Greece and Rome it was used in religious ceremonies, as a symbol of luxury and wealth, and in medicinal preparations. The Greeks and Romans also imported large quantities of frankincense from the Arabian Peninsula, contributing to its widespread popularity across the Mediterranean region.

Spiritual Significance and Ritual Use

In religious and spiritual contexts, frankincense transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. In Christianity, it was one of the gifts presented to the infant Jesus by the Three Wise Men, symbolising divinity, purity, and prayer. In Islam, it holds a special place in rituals, often burned as incense during prayer and meditation to cleanse the air and elevate the spiritual atmosphere. Similarly, in Hinduism, it is offered to deities during ceremonies and acts of devotion.

Healing Traditions and Modern Research

Beyond its ceremonial use, frankincense has been valued for its medicinal properties in traditional healing systems such as Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It has been used to treat ailments ranging from inflammation and arthritis to respiratory conditions and skin disorders.

Modern scientific research has begun to validate some of these ancient claims, shedding light on the potential health benefits of frankincense. Studies have shown its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, attributed to its active compounds boswellic acid, mono- and diterpenes. It has also shown promise in wound healing, skin care, and even mental health, with research suggesting its potential in alleviating anxiety and depression.

Contemporary Applications

In recent years, the popularity of frankincense has surged, driven by growing consumer interest in natural remedies and holistic wellness. Its presence has expanded beyond incense sticks and religious ceremonies to encompass a diverse array of products, including essential oils, skincare formulations and supplements.

 

There are many different species of Frankincense essential oil sourced from the Boswellia tree genus, each with its unique aroma profile and therapeutic properties.

Below are some of the most common:

Boswellia sacra

Also known as Sacred Frankincense or Omani Frankincense, Boswellia sacra is highly prized for its rich, complex aroma with sweet, woody, and slightly spicy notes and is traditionally sourced from Oman and parts of Yemen.

Boswellia carterii

Commonly referred to as Frankincense or Olibanum, Boswellia carterii is perhaps the most well-known variety. It has a fresh, citrus-like scent with warm, resinous undertones. This variety is native to Somalia and is widely used in perfumery, aromatherapy, and skincare products.

Boswellia serrata

Also known as Indian Frankincense or Salai, Boswellia serrata is native to India and is valued for its potent anti-inflammatory properties. Its aroma is earthy, balsamic, and slightly sweet. This variety is often used in Ayurvedic medicine and herbal formulations for joint pain and inflammation.

Boswellia frereana

Known as Somali Frankincense or Maydi, Boswellia frereana is sourced from Somalia and has a warm, spicy aroma with hints of lemon and pine. It is often used in incense blends and perfumes and is prized for its balancing and grounding effects in aromatherapy.

Boswellia neglecta

This variety of frankincense is native to Ethiopia and is known for its resinous aroma with earthy, balsamic, and slightly fruity notes. Boswellia neglecta essential oil is used in traditional Ethiopian medicine for its purported healing properties and is also gaining recognition in the global market.

Boswellia rivae

Also known as Ethiopian Frankincense or Ogaden Frankincense, is a species of the Boswellia genus native to the Ogaden region of Ethiopia, as well as parts of Somalia and Kenya. This particular species is known for its resin, which has been traditionally used for its aromatic, medicinal, and ceremonial purposes by the indigenous peoples of the region.

 

These are just a few examples of the diverse varieties of frankincense essential oil available, each with its unique characteristics and potential therapeutic benefits. Each of these is a beautiful oil to have in your collection. My personal favourite is the carterii but at Ahimsa we also stock the serrata and rivae to provide variety for lovers of frankincense.