A Noble Oil with An Ancient History - FRANKINCENSE

For more than 5,000 years, Frankincense also known as Olibanum, has been traded on the Arabian Peninsula, in Northern Africa, Somalia and travelled as far as China. It has been used in many religious ceremonies and Ancient Egyptians have sought the resin for perfumes, incense, treating of skin conditions and as one of the ingredients for mummification process. Recent studies have indicated that the population of the trees are declining.

Many biblical references are made to Frankincense and it was one of the gifts presented to infant Jesus by the three wise men when he was born. In Africa, Frankincense is utilised as a traditional medicine to alleviate digestive issues and to support skin health. In India, it is used in Ayurvedic treatments for wound healing and even reducing arthritic symptoms.

The extreme harsh conditions in Somalia make it almost impossible for any plant to survive but is a home to the Boswellia carterii trees - which the Frankincense resin is harvested. The trees are wild grown and specific land areas are handed down through generations in each clan. The land areas and the trees within the land areas are inherited by the men in the family and harvesting of Frankincense become an important source of income.

During the month from September through to December, the men will leave the village and spend months in the hills. The trees are tapped carefully and as the sap flows from the resulting hole, it solidifies on the trunk. This harden sap resin, known as tears, is then collected by hand on a three-weekly cycle to ensure that the trees are not over harvested.

Once harvesting is completed, the women in the village clean and sort the resin into grades by hand and subsequently sold to distillation companies, Roman Catholic churches and the Middle East. It takes about 100 kilogram of the resin to produce only about 1 kilogram of the precious essential oil.

The warm, spicy, peppery and refreshing notes of this oil give it a distinctive scent and is sought after by aromatherapists and perfumers. The oil is a precious commodity that is also undergoing many research studies for its potential medical applications.

The oil has a calming effect on the mind, regulating breathing patterns, making it useful for meditation and for people who have nervous tension or anxious tendencies. In a 2008 study, it was reported that it is able to relieve depression and anxiety. Frankincense is also able to help clear the lungs and alleviate coughs. When incorporate in skincare, it is an renowned anti-aging ingredient as it imparts a rejuvenating properties and help to reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Due to its astringent effect, it is also helpful for oily complexions as it can minimise breakouts and redness.

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