Name : Frankincense ( Olibanum )
Method : Steam distillation from oleo gum resin. In its natural state, the gum resembles whitish tears which leak from the bark.
Note Classification : Base
Scent : Warm, rich, leather with zesty top note
Colour : Pale yellow or pale green
Species : Boswellia carteri, Boswellia thurifera. Family Burseracea
Extracted From : Tree gum ( 3-10% oil to 60-70% resin )
Region : Native to Read Sea region. Somalia, Ethiopia, China, Arabia
By-products : An absolute is also produced, mainly as a fixative
Historical : One of the most treasured substances in the ancient world. Used for a long time as incense in India and China. In Egypt it was used in cosmetics and perfumes.
Of Interest :Used in men's fragrances. Pharmaceutical use in liniments and throat pastilles. Used in minute amounts in some food production ( eg. soft drinks ). The word frankincense comes from a 10th century French word meaning 'luxuriant incense'.
Aromatherapy Properties :Blemishes, dry and mature complexions, scars, wounds, wrinkles.
Asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, laryngitis.
Cystitis, period problems, colds, flu.
Anxiety, nervous tension and stress related conditions.
