Frankincense, a name that evokes images of ancient rituals and biblical tales, is more than just a fragrant Christmas spice. It’s a natural resin with a rich history and a range of uses, from spiritual ceremonies to potential health applications. But what exactly is frankincense?
Frankincense, also known as olibanum, is essentially the dried sap derived from trees belonging to the Boswellia genus. These trees, numbering around 50 different species, are predominantly found in regions like the Horn of Africa, with some species also native to the Middle East and India. The resin itself is extracted and then left to dry, transforming into the aromatic substance prized for centuries. When burned, frankincense releases a distinctive woody and musky scent, a characteristic attributed to terpenes, a group of chemicals present in the resin.
The process of harvesting frankincense is a traditional practice that has remained largely unchanged for generations. Producers carefully make incisions in the Boswellia trees using a specialized tool, causing a milky white sap to seep out. This sap, often referred to as “tears” due to its droplet formation, is left to harden. This tapping process is repeated multiple times throughout the year, with harvesting schedules varying depending on the specific geographical location and climate. Once the resin has solidified into hard, stone-like globules, it is collected and left to dry completely, ready for use.
Frankincense boasts a history as rich and fragrant as its aroma. Approximately 2,000 years ago, it was a highly sought-after commodity, primarily valued for its role in religious ceremonies as incense. Its captivating scent made it an integral part of rituals across various cultures. Vast quantities of frankincense were traded across continents, shipped from Africa throughout the Mediterranean region, reaching as far as India and even China. This extensive trade network solidified frankincense’s position as one of the most lucrative commodities of its time. Among the different varieties, Somali frankincense, derived from the Boswellia frereana species, was particularly prized in ancient trade. Known in Arabic as “Asli,” meaning “the original” or “the first,” it is believed by many to be the frankincense presented to baby Jesus by the wise men.
The gifts of the three wise men – gold, frankincense, and myrrh – are laden with symbolic meaning within Christian tradition. Gold is interpreted as representing Jesus’s kingship, frankincense symbolizes his divinity, and myrrh, a resin used for embalming, signifies his mortality and prophetic role. This connection to the biblical narrative has further cemented frankincense’s cultural and spiritual importance.
Beyond its spiritual and historical significance, frankincense has long been recognized for its potential health benefits, most notably its anti-inflammatory properties. For millennia, traditional medicine systems have utilized frankincense for therapeutic purposes. In Vedic and Chinese herbal medicine, it has been employed to alleviate symptoms associated with conditions like arthritis, chronic bronchitis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel disease. Even today, frankincense, particularly Boswellia serrata (Indian frankincense), is a popular health supplement, especially in regions like the U.K., often combined with turmeric or Omega oils.
The medicinal properties of most frankincense varieties are largely attributed to boswellic acid, an active compound believed to interfere with biochemical processes linked to inflammation and pain. However, Somali frankincense stands out due to its unique composition. Unlike other varieties, it does not contain boswellic acid. Instead, its primary active compound is epilupeol. Research indicates that epilupeol targets a protein called MMP-9, which plays a significant role in inflammatory diseases. By inhibiting this protein, epilupeol is thought to suppress pain and inflammation responses in the body, potentially offering relief for a wide range of conditions. Ongoing research, including in vitro studies, explores the potential of Somali frankincense and epilupeol in addressing conditions like arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, multiple sclerosis, and even metastatic cancer.
In conclusion, frankincense is a fascinating substance with a multifaceted identity. From its origins as a fragrant resin harvested from Boswellia trees to its historical prominence in trade and religious practices, and its emerging potential in health and wellness, frankincense holds a unique place in both history and modern research. Whether appreciated for its aromatic qualities, spiritual significance, or potential health benefits, frankincense continues to captivate and intrigue.
