Name
Olibanum
Latin name
Boswellia carterii
Category
Resins and balsams
Information
Olibanum, also known as frankincense, is an aromatic resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia that grow in the semi-deserts and desert margins of northeastern Africa and peninsular India. The resin is initially in a liquid state and then turns into a fragrant yellow-brown and sometimes slightly green mass. Three main species have been used in the production of frankincense: Boswellia carteri, Boswellia papyrifera and Boswellia serrata.
Olibanum has a wide range of medicinal uses and has been used in rituals and meditation for thousands of years. It is also one of the basic ingredients for the production of frankincense.
What does olibanum smell like?
It is difficult to describe clearly the smell of frankincense, but it is a very characteristic aroma: fresh and at the same time deep, smoky, slightly citrus, slightly fruity but dry, balsamic, slightly spicy and warm.
