Frankincense, or Boswellia thurifera, is extracted from the boswellia or frankincense tree. It has been used for thousands of years for its aromatic and . Native to the African subcontinent, frankincense is a unique botanical with a long history.
Backgrround
Native to Oman and also grown in Yemen, Somalia and Ethiopia, frankincense is the dry resin of tree sap. The most available form is as a dry resin, but the botanical is as an essential oil and as a component of other products.
Harvesting
The boswellia tree has resin ducts under the bark surface that are tapped to release the frankincense. In April the harvesters go to the boswellia trees and make initial cuts into the bark at a number of different points. These pieces of bark are removed to expose the undersurface of the tree trunk. A white liquid leaks from the underside of the bark and solidifies as it is exposed to the air. Harvesters allow this liquid to crust over for 2 weeks without interference.
The cutting and sap draining process is repeated two more times. On the third round, the sap is yellow rather than white. It is this yellowish dry sap that contains the most fragrance and potency and is sold commercially as frankincense.
Uses
Frankincense is known for its aromatic qualities and as a seasonal fragrance in winter. The dried sap is warmed over a hot fire or thrown right into the coals to release its pungent and distinct aroma. Frankincense is used to flavor toothpaste, deodorant and linen sprays as well as food and drinks. This versatile tree sap is an effective bug repellent as the smoke from burning embers wards off mosquitoes and other flying pests.
Historically, frankincense was the fragrance of religious ceremonies, rituals and funerals (as an embalming herb) by the ancient Romans, Greeks and Egyptians.
Medicinal Properties
Proponents of frankincense believe that it has a number of medicinal and healing properties. In its native country of Oman, the resin is used for treating a number of afflictions. Stomach problems including sickness and indigestion are treated with an extract of the tree sap. Frankincense is ground into a powder, dissolved in water and added to balms and salves.
Availability
Frankincense is available online and shipped directly from the country of origin. It is also available in the west in specialty stores and Middle Eastern food stores. Frankincense oil is more readily available at drug stores and online retailers.
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