This unusual type of Frankincense Sacra is quite different from the Oman Frankincense we are familiar with. Though it does not rate high in the traditional Omani grading system, (Likely due to the absence of well-defined tears), it is favoured by distillers, perfumers and incense makers for its unique aromatic characteristics and abundance of essential oil which lends it its stickiness and intense aroma.
It conveys these aromatic qualities readily to incense blends, teas, oils, salves, tinctures and cremes.
Black Frankincense sacra makes a gorgeous incense on its own or if desired, small pieces can be warmed and rolled between the fingers into balls, blended with essential oils or rolled in fragrant wood powders such as Agarwood and Sandalwood to create unique incense Pastilles.
As many other Frankincense types, it contains Boswellic acids which have been shown to exhibit anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties.
The Boswellic acids contribute to its traditional use in cosmetic and therapeutic oils, salves cremes and liniments used for mature skin, joint pain, arthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis.
For more information, recipes and instructions on making your own therapeutic or cosmetic products from Frankincense resin, please visit my blog at www.apothecarysgarden.com or see my post at https://apothecarysgarden.com/2014/07/30/how-to-make-a-whole-extract-of-frankincense-and-other-oleoresins.
There are about 18 species of Frankincense in the world. Though not all of them yield resin on a commercial scale, those that do have been used for centuries in incense, perfume and traditional folk medicine in the areas they grow.
Dan
If your resin is sticky, removing it from the plastic wrapper may be difficult. My trick and workaround is to place the bag in the fridge or freezer for 15-30 minutes before separating it from its package. After chilling, it will detach with ease and without leaving any material stuck to the wrapper.
Materials: Boswellia Sacra, Black Frankincense, Black Sacra, AKBA, Boswellic Acids.