An Aromatic Journey Through Time
Introduction
Frankincense, one of the world’s most revered sacred resins, bridges the rich tapestry of ancient traditions and the complexities of modern global markets.
Exploring the Origins of Frankincense
The story of frankincense begins with the Boswellia tree, a genus encompassing numerous species that grow across diverse countries and regions. Each species is uniquely adapted to its environment, and the communities who tap these trees are at the heart of sustaining both the frankincense supply and the landscapes where Boswellia flourishes. Their dedicated stewardship is essential for maintaining the delicate balance between trade and preservation, ensuring the ongoing availability of these sacred resins.
Sustainability and the Supply Chain
The frankincense supply chain is marked by intricate challenges, particularly when it comes to sustainability. Harvesters are more than laborers—they are key stewards of Boswellia populations and the environments where these trees grow. Supporting these communities is crucial for sustaining the trade and preserving the diversity of Boswellia species, securing their legacy for generations to come.
A Personal Encounter with Boswellia sacra
Following the IUCN Conservation Congress, the opportunity arose to travel to Oman and visit Steven Johnson, where the wild Boswellia sacra could be observed in its natural habitat. This experience also included visiting a local tree nursery and sorting house.
To further support sustainability efforts, a special initiative has been launched:
The first 100 donors who contribute $50+ will receive a small bundle of fresh frankincense resin. Half of the funds raised will support collecting seeds and propagating Boswellia sacra at the tree nursery in Oman, the other half will support United Plant Savers’ mission.
The Transformation of the Frankincense Industry
Over the past 25 to 30 years, the frankincense industry has undergone substantial change. Surging global interest has driven increased demand, putting pressure on the supply chain. This heightened demand has affected frankincense availability and led to notable shifts in both market structure and geographic distribution. Frankincense’s mystical reputation and captivating scent have long drawn the fascination of cultures around the world. As global demand for this resin grows, its value rises and the ways it is sourced and traded continue to evolve. The ongoing interplay of ancient tradition and contemporary market forces shapes the ever-evolving narrative of frankincense.
Khor Rori (Sumhuram), Oman: The Ancient Frankincense Port
Khor Rori, also known as Sumhuram, is an archeological site that was dedicated as UNESCO world heritage site in 2000. Once a central hub for the frankincense trade, Sumhuram welcomed ships from civilizations such as Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, the Indus Valley, and the Mediterranean. The prosperity of the southern Arabian kingdoms was closely tied to the frankincense trade, and Sumhuram thrived as an international seaport for over 800 years, going back to the third century BC, serving as a key entry point for ships arriving from major ancient civilizations, including Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, the Indus Valley, and the Mediterranean world. Approaching the archaeological site, the fortified city of Sumhuram emerges, perched above the Lagoon of Khor Rori along the Indian Ocean. The site is clearly segmented into residential areas, temple complexes, storehouses for frankincense, and a market square.
Archaeological finds at Sumhuram include kohl applicators (herbal eyeliner), jewelry, incense burners, bells, and animal-shaped decorations. The city featured a temple dedicated to the moon god Sin (Nanna in Sumerian), a major Mesopotamian deity associated with fertility, wisdom, and time. Sin, father of Shamash the god of the sun, was symbolized by the crescent moon or bull’s horns. Exploring the ancient landscape and being able to meet this incredible tree in the wild has taken the story of the three magi following the star to bring frankincense, myrrh and gold to baby Jesus that I grew up with to new meaning and exploration.
FREE Online Class
Learn more about sustainable sourcing and traditional uses of Frankincense in our 45-min class replay.
Frankincense:
A Tree of Wonder and Wisdom
As the holiday season approaches, we are delighted to share this FREE online class, drawing from the expertise of Anjanette DeCarlo and Stephen Johnson. They provide an overview of frankincense diversity from the wild landscapes where Boswellia trees thrive, to the challenges and solutions of contemporary trade. The Boswellia tree, long celebrated for its fragrant resin, holds countless lessons within its history, ecology, and cultural significance.
For further reading, learn more about what UNESCO refers to as the “Land of Frankincense.”
