Frankincense Resin (Boswellia spp.)

Tears (resin droplets) of Boswellia species (primarily Boswellia carterii and Boswellia sacra), the iconic ancient resin of the Arabian Peninsula and East African Horn. Frankincense was traded across the ancient Mediterranean world along the "Incense Route" and was valued in Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Hebrew religious practices. The English name comes from Old French "franc encens" meaning "high-quality incense."

Key Facts

Botanical names

Boswellia carterii, Boswellia sacra, and related species

Family

Burseraceae

Native region

Arabian Peninsula (Oman, Yemen), East Africa (Somalia, Ethiopia)

Form

Hardened resin tears collected from tapped trees

Studied compounds

Boswellic acids (triterpenes), alpha-pinene, incensole

Common uses

Incense burning (charcoal), traditional resin chewing, perfumery, essential oil distillation

What is Frankincense?

Frankincense is the hardened sap of small trees in the Boswellia genus, which grow in arid mountains of southern Arabia and the East African Horn. The trees are tapped - small incisions are made in the bark - and the milky white sap that exudes hardens into "tears" of resin which are collected. Frankincense was one of the most valuable trade commodities of the ancient world; the Incense Route ran from the Arabian Peninsula northward across the Levant for over 1,000 years.

How to Burn Frankincense

The traditional method uses charcoal: light a piece of incense charcoal until it glows red and ashes over (a few minutes), place in a heatproof bowl on sand, then place a single tear of resin on top. The resin will melt and release fragrant white smoke for several minutes. Frankincense is also distilled to produce frankincense essential oil and is included in many traditional incense blends.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Frankincense smell like?
Warm, balsamic, slightly citrus and pine-like with sweet undertones. The character varies by Boswellia species and origin.

Why was Frankincense so valuable historically?
Limited geographic range plus high demand across the ancient world for religious and ceremonial use. The Incense Route was a major trade corridor for over 1,000 years.

What are boswellic acids?
The primary triterpene compound class in Frankincense; the focus of most modern pharmacological research on the resin.

How do I burn Frankincense?
On lit incense charcoal in a heatproof bowl with sand. A single tear releases smoke for several minutes.

Is Frankincense sustainable?
The Boswellia trees are increasingly threatened by overharvesting and climate pressure. Sourcing from sustainable suppliers matters.

Can Frankincense be chewed?
Yes; chewing the resin like gum is a traditional practice in Oman and parts of East Africa.

This product has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.