Frankincense and Boswellia are often used interchangeably, causing confusion about the product being bought or consumed. This overlap exists because Boswellia describes the tree genus (the source), while Frankincense refers to the aromatic, hardened resin harvested from its bark (the product). Understanding this biological relationship and the resulting chemical variations is necessary to distinguish between them.
Clarifying the Botanical Relationship
The fundamental distinction is that Boswellia names the entire tree genus, while Frankincense is the common name for the resin it produces. When the bark of a Boswellia tree is wounded, it naturally exudes a sticky, milky liquid. This substance dries into hard, translucent pieces known historically as Frankincense, or olibanum. The resin has been highly valued for thousands of years, primarily for its use as incense in religious ceremonies and as a traditional medicine across cultures.
Differentiation by Specific Species
The properties of Frankincense resin vary significantly depending on the specific Boswellia species from which it is collected. While there are numerous species, a few are primarily responsible for the global trade. For example, Boswellia serrata, native to India, is known as Indian Frankincense. Boswellia sacra is typically sourced from Oman and the Arabian Peninsula, earning it the name Sacred or Omani Frankincense.
Geographical Influence
Another recognized species is Boswellia carterii, which grows in parts of East Africa, including Somalia. The geographical location and environmental conditions directly influence the biological makeup of the tree and the resin it yields, resulting in distinct aromatic and chemical profiles.
Chemical Composition Differences
The most important variations between Frankincense types are found in their chemical composition, which dictates how the product is used. The resin contains two primary components: pentacyclic triterpenoids, known collectively as boswellic acids, and volatile terpenes found in the essential oil. The concentration of boswellic acids, particularly acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA), is a key factor for therapeutic applications. These compounds are known to inhibit a pro-inflammatory enzyme called 5-lipoxygenase.
Therapeutic vs. Aromatic Profiles
Frankincense from B. serrata is often standardized for its high boswellic acid content, making it a popular ingredient in anti-inflammatory supplements. Conversely, some species, such as Boswellia frereana, produce resin containing no boswellic acids but are prized for their unique, high-terpene aromatic profile used in perfumery and essential oils.