Frankincense

Frankincense is a hard resin extracted from the trunk of trees of the genus Boswellia. When the bark is cut or stripped, the tree exudes a milky resin that hardens in air into solid, white or pale yellow droplets. When these droplets are burned, they produce fragrant smoke.

Frankincense trees grow in arid, hot regions, including areas of the Horn of Africa (particularly the northern highlands of Somalia and Somaliland), Yemen, Oman, and parts of India. Each Boswellia species has different properties and grades, which affect market value.

Harvesting

Harvesting relies on manual labor. A harvester makes cuts in the tree bark with a special tool, then waits days to weeks for the resin to harden. The collected droplets are then sorted by size, color, and purity. Trees of the same age are often tapped multiple times during a year, at chosen intervals.

Frankincense trees are usually owned by families or clans, with rights of inheritance and customary distribution. This system determines who may harvest a particular tree and how the proceeds are divided.

Uses

Frankincense is used for incense in homes and places of worship, especially in Christian churches and Islamic practice in the region. Essential oil is also extracted for use in the perfume industry. Traditionally it has been used for health and healing purposes, though scientific research on these applications is ongoing.

Economics and environment

Frankincense is an important income source for many households in regions with difficult pastoral conditions. The supply chain typically involves local collectors, followed by traders operating in international markets. In recent years concern has grown about overharvesting, which weakens trees and reduces their regeneration, prompting efforts to regulate harvest levels.