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Boswellia is a genus of trees belonging to the Burseraceae family, primarily found in Somalia, Yemen, Oman, and parts of India and Pakistan. These trees are significant for producing frankincense, an aromatic gum resin. Frankincense is obtained by making incisions in the tree trunks, allowing a milky juice to exude, which then hardens in the air.12

Historically, frankincense has been valued for its use in religious ceremonies, as a medicine, and in perfumes. It was used by ancient Egyptians, in Jewish incense, and is traditionally recognized as one of the gifts of the Magi to Jesus. In modern times, its essential oil is used in aromatherapy, cosmetics, and skincare products, with purported benefits for pain relief. Several Boswellia species are currently threatened due to habitat loss and other environmental factors.1

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3 Britannica Sources
  1. frankincense
  2. Boswellia
  3. Burseraceae

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