Frankincense

What it is

Frankincense is an aromatic resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia. The substance is collected by tapping the bark, allowing the sap to harden into tears. It is primarily used as incense and in perfumes. The resin is valued for its scent and has been a significant trade commodity for centuries. Different species produce resins with varying qualities, which are sorted by hand. The most opaque resins are generally considered the highest grade. The word derives from Old French, indicating high quality.

Where it comes from

The English term comes from Old French franc encens, meaning 'true incense'. The Greek word líbanos is linked to Lebanon, suggesting the spice route passed through Mount Lebanon. Medieval Latin olibanum likely evolved from Greek or Arabic terms. Ancient Egyptians referenced it in the third millennium BCE. Hebrew scripture prescribes its use in sacred altars. It was also offered by the magi in the New Testament.

How it is done

Trees begin producing resin at eight to ten years old. Harvesters tap the trees two to three times annually. Final taps yield the best quality due to higher terpene content. The resin flows out when the trunk is notched. It hardens into lumps that are gathered and sorted. Heavily tapped trees produce fewer viable seeds compared to untouched ones. The process relies on manual labor and traditional knowledge of tree care.

Tools and materials

The primary material is the resin from Boswellia trees. Key species include B. sacra, B. frereana, and B. serrata. Resin is burned in thuribles during religious ceremonies. Essential oils are extracted via steam distillation. The oil contains monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes but lacks boswellic acids found in solvent extracts. Chemical analysis identifies compounds like incensole acetate and alpha-boswellic acid.

What it is for

It serves as a holy offering in Jewish tradition and was used in Catholic Mass. Perfume makers utilize it for its scent. Some communities believe it has therapeutic properties, though clinical evidence remains weak. It is burned to create fragrance and atmosphere. The resin is also used in aromatherapy and traditional medicine practices across various cultures.

Who does it

Harvesting is done by local communities in the Horn of Africa and Arabia. In Somalia, it is collected in Bari and Sanaag regions. Farmers and gatherers rely on this income source. Religious priests burn it in rituals. Scholars study its chemical composition and ecological impact. The work involves physical labor in arid, often conflict-affected regions.

Peoples and places

Somalis harvest the majority of global production. Omani sites like Sumhuram were ancient trading hubs. Hebrews used it in Temple rituals. Egyptians depicted its transport in temple art. Indian species like B. serrata are also traded. The resin moved along routes reaching China and Europe. Different regions value specific species based on local preferences and availability.

What people believe

In Hebrew tradition, it was a holy offering not for personal enjoyment. Christians associate it with the gifts of the magi. It symbolizes purity and devotion in various rites. The scent is believed to carry prayers upward. Its white color signifies cleanliness. The resin's durability represents permanence in spiritual contexts.

When it is done

Harvesting occurs two to three times yearly. Final taps produce the best quality. Trees must reach eight to ten years before tapping begins. Religious festivals often feature its burning. Daily rituals in some households include its use. The timing aligns with tree biology and seasonal cycles.

How scholars and sceptics see it

Researchers note declining tree populations due to overexploitation. Studies show heavily tapped trees have low seed germination rates. Ecologists warn of habitat loss and beetle attacks. Clinical studies on therapeutic effects are inconclusive. Historians trace its trade routes through ancient empires. Chemists analyze its volatile compounds for modern applications.

Compare and confuse

Myrrh is another resin often confused with frankincense. Both come from similar families. Benzoin and copal are related resins. Agarwood offers a different aromatic profile. Mastic comes from a distinct tree species. All share uses in incense and traditional medicine. Their scents vary based on chemical composition.

Law and persecution

UNESCO designated Omani sites as World Heritage locations. CITES does not cover all Boswellia species. Experts argue for stricter protection. Local laws regulate harvesting in some regions. International trade faces scrutiny regarding sustainability. Conservation efforts aim to balance income needs with ecological preservation.

Rites that involve Frankincense

Questions people ask about Frankincense

Good reading and sources

• Encyclopaedia BritannicaArticle
• Frankincense trees—of biblical lore—are being tapped out for essential oilsNational Geographic, Article
• Land of FrankincenseUNESCO, Heritage listing

• Frankincense on WikipediaEncyclopedia
• More photos on Wikimedia CommonsPhotos and video
• Wikidata recordOpen data