Frankincense, a fragrant resin derived from the bark of Boswellia trees, has been prized for thousands of years for its use in perfumes, traditional medicine, and religious ceremonies. The term “frankincense” is not a single product but a category of resins that vary significantly in quality, chemical composition, and aroma based on their source tree. Understanding these differences is the first step in determining the best purchase for a specific need. A careful approach is necessary to ensure the product is high-quality, authentic, and ethically-sourced.
The Key Species and Their Characteristics
The quality and therapeutic properties of frankincense are largely determined by the species of the Boswellia tree from which the resin is harvested. The three most commercially significant species are distinct in geographical origin and chemical markers.
Boswellia sacra, often called Omani or Sacred Frankincense, is highly valued for its aromatic qualities and is rich in the monoterpene alpha-pinene, which contributes a fresh, pine-like scent. This species is native to the Arabian Peninsula, particularly Oman and Yemen. It is frequently considered the highest grade for incense and essential oils due to its complex fragrance profile.
Boswellia carterii is primarily sourced from Somalia and the Horn of Africa, sharing a similar chemical profile to B. sacra but often with a more balsamic or citrus aroma. B. carterii is a common source for essential oils and resin used in aromatherapy and traditional practices.
In contrast, Boswellia serrata, or Indian Frankincense, is the species most frequently used in dietary supplements and traditional Ayurvedic medicine. The primary active compounds in B. serrata resin are boswellic acids, specifically acetyl-11-keto-beta-boswellic acid (AKBA), which are studied for their anti-inflammatory properties.
While all frankincense resins contain volatile essential oils and non-volatile triterpenoids, B. serrata is standardized for its acid content. B. sacra and B. carterii are prized for their volatile essential oil components. The intended application—aromatic or medicinal supplement—should guide the selection of the correct species.
Assessing Quality and Grade
The quality of frankincense resin is traditionally determined by a visual grading system that assesses the color, size, and clarity of the hardened tears. The highest grade of Omani Boswellia sacra is known as Hojari, sourced from trees in the Dhofar region. Within the Hojari grade, the most prized resins are the lighter, clearer tears, such as the translucent Green Hojari, which accounts for a small percentage of the total harvest and possesses a particularly vibrant, eucalyptus-like aroma.
The quality of frankincense essential oils is evaluated differently, requiring analytical verification to confirm purity and composition. Reputable suppliers provide third-party testing, specifically Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC/MS) reports, which detail the exact chemical constituents of the oil. This testing is necessary to detect adulteration, such as the addition of synthetic compounds or dilution with cheaper carrier oils.
A key factor influencing resin quality is the tapping process. The first few weeks of tapping a Boswellia tree yield an initial resin that is often considered lower quality or is discarded, known as the “first milk.” Subsequent tappings yield the cleaner, clearer tears valued for their purity and higher concentration of desirable compounds. The resin color can also indicate the environment, as frankincense harvested from the moist coastal areas often appears darker and stickier, while that from drier, mountainous regions is lighter.
Choosing the Right Form (Oil, Resin, or Supplement)
The best form of frankincense to purchase depends entirely on the intended use, whether for aromatic, spiritual, or internal therapeutic purposes.
Raw Resin
If seeking the traditional aromatic experience, raw resin tears are the appropriate choice, intended for burning as incense or chewing. When purchasing resin, look for clean, intact tears with minimal bark or debris mixed in, as this indicates careful sorting and freshness.
Essential Oil
For aromatherapy, essential oil is the preferred format. Buyers should ensure the oil is steam-distilled, as this method extracts the volatile aromatic compounds without harsh chemical solvents. It is crucial to confirm the oil’s botanical name (e.g., Boswellia sacra or Boswellia carterii) and to verify the purity through a supplier-provided GC/MS report. If the oil is pre-diluted, the type and quality of the carrier oil should also be clearly stated by the vendor.
Standardized Supplement
When seeking the anti-inflammatory benefits associated with frankincense, a standardized supplement or extract is the most effective form. These products are typically derived from Boswellia serrata and are processed to concentrate the non-volatile boswellic acids. A high-quality supplement will specify the percentage of total boswellic acids, often standardized to 65% or more, and may highlight the concentration of the most potent compound, AKBA.
Ethical Sourcing and Responsible Buying
The Boswellia species are facing significant threats from over-harvesting and habitat loss, making ethical sourcing a major consideration. The traditional tapping process, if done incorrectly or too frequently, can severely compromise the tree’s health, leading to reduced growth and poor seed production.
Buyers should prioritize vendors who demonstrate supply chain transparency regarding the origin, harvest date, and specific harvesting practices used. Look for evidence of sustainable practices, such as suppliers who work with local communities to implement rotational tapping and ensure the cuts are shallow, avoiding damage to the heartwood.
A lack of species identification on a product label or an unusually low price can be red flags indicating a lower-grade product or unethical harvesting. By choosing suppliers who invest in the long-term health of the Boswellia trees, consumers support both a higher quality product and environmental conservation efforts.