Benjuí
Materials

Frankincense (olibanum)

The universal incense resin, from Boswellia trees of Arabia, the Horn of Africa and India. Burns cleanly with a bright, citrus-resinous smoke; used from Catholic censers to Japanese blends. Under pressure from over-tapping in the Horn of Africa.

· Atlas · Materials

Frankincense (olibanum)
Typegum resin
FormPale yellow to green tears; dusty siftings in low grades
ExtractsEssential oil, absolute, resinoid, CO2.
RegulationNot restricted as a resin; oil subject to oxidation limits.

Scent facets

  • lemony
  • resinous
  • peppery
  • clean
  • balsamic

Botanical source

Origins

Main constituents

Uses

  • incense in nearly every tradition
  • essential oil and absolute in perfumery
  • chewing gum and water infusion (Oman, Somalia)
  • supplements (boswellic acids)

Perfumes with this resin