Frankincense Rivae

Frankincense Rivae is likely my favourite type of Frankincense and never stays in the shop for long.

Frequently asked questions

Some questions and answers are automatically generated.

How does Rivae compare to other frankincense types?
Rivae stands out for its bold, complex profile—earthier and woodier than sweeter varieties like Sacra or Hojari, with fresh spicy notes and a richer, deeper character. Many customers find it distinctly unique among frankincense types.
What does the scent actually smell like?
The scent has a haunting, rich fragrance with sweet candy-like notes and soft spiciness, grounded in an earthy, woody base. Most find it complex and vibrant, though a few describe it as quite earthy or woody, which may lean musty to some.
Is it good for burning on charcoal?
Many customers report excellent results burning it on charcoal. One reviewer noted it dissolves quickly in oil, though another mentioned it didn't burn as expected on charcoal—results appear to vary.
Can I use it in oils and skincare?
Yes. Customers successfully dissolve and steep it in carrier oils like almond, castor, and jojoba oil for skincare and topical applications. It integrates readily into oils and has been used traditionally in this way.
Is this wildcrafted and ethically sourced?
The product description states it is wildcrafted Frankincense Rivae from the Ogaden region. The seller emphasizes fair-trade and sustainable harvest practices; you can find more details on their blog at fairtradefrankincense.com.
How long does a little go?
Several customers note that an ounce lasts a long time because it goes a long way—a small amount provides extended use whether burned, infused in oil, or used in blends.
Good for making incense blends?
Yes, multiple customers report using it successfully in their own incense blends and finding it elevates those blends. The seller describes it as a go-to frankincense for blending work.
It has a haunting, rich fragrance with a soft candy-like sweetness reminiscent of its distant cousin Palo Santo, (Bursera Graveolens). With a deep amber heart and a light, sweet spiciness, it is my go-to Frank in many of my blends and is a beautiful resin on the coal.

Like all others in its family this resin is ruled Astrologically by the Sun. Thus it is considered warming and strengthening to the heart and mind, grounding, cleansing and spiritually uplifting.

Boswellia Rivae has been used traditionally as an incense to cleanse the home, sanctify ceremonies and sacred spaces. Both the essential oil and oleoresin of Frankincense Rivae are ingredients in traditional Bakhoor incense mixes across the region.

The scent of Frankincense Rivae, though unmistakably that of Frankincense, stands out with a smooth complexity. It is one of the most vibrant Frankincense types I have come across. It lends itself beautifully to natural incense work and can be used in various cremes, salves and oils.

Boswellia Rivae, is an olfactory treat, a rare and unusual Frankincense that should not be missed.

You can find the essential oil of Frankincense Rivae that I distilled and the absolutely delicious Absolute of Frankincense Rivae in the shop.

For more information on rare Frankincense types, ethical and sustainable harvest and Frankincense co-ops and how to use these ancient aromatics, please visit my blog at http://apothecarysgarden.com or http://fairtradefrankincense.com

To read more about my trip to visit the Frankincense collectors and for more photos please see my blog post here-https://apothecarysgarden.com/2019/03/04/the-frankincense-collectors-somali-region-ethiopia/

Dan

Materials: Wildcrafted Frankincense, Frankincense Rivae, Ogaden Frankincense.