Boswelia Sacra
Boswellia sacra
is a tree species best known for producing frankincense, specifically an oleoresin that transforms into a fragrant gum when dried. It belongs to the Burseraceae family and is native to the Arabian Peninsula, in the Dhofar region of Oman.
Frankincense extracted from Boswellia sacra is traditionally used in religious ceremonies, aromatherapy, and as part of certain Ayurvedic and traditional healing practices. It is believed to have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and healing properties, which is why it is widely used in natural medicine to treat various health problems such as arthritis, asthma, digestive problems, and skin diseases.
| Category: | Frankincense |
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Origin and Quality of Frankincense from Dhofar
• Dhofar is world-renowned as the home of the finest frankincense, specifically the Boswellia sacra species.
• Frankincense trees grow primarily in the desert areas of Salalah and on the slopes of the Dhofar Mountains, where they have ideal conditions (dry and rocky soil).
• The best varieties:
• Hojari (Royal Green Hojari) – the purest and most expensive form of frankincense, often greenish or white in color.
• Silver Hojari – the second highest grade, pale and very aromatic.
• Yellow and Brown Hojari – lower grades, used more for everyday purposes and in incense sticks.
Uses of Frankincense
Religious and Spiritual Rituals
• In Islam, Christianity, and Hinduism, frankincense is used in prayers and rituals.
• In Oman, burning incense is a part of everyday life, used to cleanse homes and welcome guests.
Medicinal uses
Frankincense contains boswellic acids, which have strong anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties.
• Respiratory support – inhalation of the smoke or oil helps with asthma and bronchitis.
• Inflammation treatment – used for arthritis, rheumatism and autoimmune diseases.
• Digestive improvement – traditionally chewed as a natural gum to improve digestion and eliminate parasites.
• Antidepressant and relaxing properties – frankincense oil is used in aromatherapy to calm the mind and reduce stress.
Cosmetics and perfumery
• Frankincense resin and oil are prized in luxury perfumes, especially in the Orient.
• Frankincense water is made from it, which has moisturizing effects on the skin.
• Frankincense oil is used in skin creams for rejuvenation and wrinkle reduction.
Uses in incense and interior fragrance
• In Oman, it is a tradition to burn incense in homes to remove negative energies and disinfect the air.
• High-quality frankincense is also used to perfume clothes and traditional garments (e.g. disdasha).
Commercial importance of Dhofar frankincense
• Frankincense was once more valuable than gold and played a key role in ancient trade routes.
• Oman is still the largest exporter of high-quality frankincense today, with demand coming mainly from the United Arab Emirates, India and Europe.
• Dhofar frankincense is often included in luxury perfumes such as Amouage and Clive Christian.
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