Frankincense (Boswellia spp)

Frankincense, also called olibanum, is an aromatic resin used in incense and perfumes, obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia in the family Burseraceae, particularly Boswellia sacra (syn: B. carteri, B. thurifera, B. bhaw-dajiana), B. frereana and B. serrata (Indian frankincense). The English word is derived from Old French “franc encens” (i.e., high quality incense).

There are four main species of Boswellia that produce true frankincense and resin from each of the four is available in various grades. The grades depend on the time of harvesting. The resin is hand-sorted for quality. Frankincense is mentioned in the Bible as one of the three types of gifts the wise men gave to the young child Jesus.