Boswellia carteri is a shrubby tree native to the Middle East that yields a resin commonly known as Indian frankincense. Frankincense is the hardened sap that runs from a tropical tree in the torchwood family that grows in Asia and the Middle East. The resin “bleeds” from the scored bark of trees that are 8 to 10 years of age and quickly hardens to form “tears.” It is highly fragrant and most commonly used in this form as incense. Background: Frankincense has been used since ancient times. It is mentioned in the Bible. Jews use frankincense as a ceremonial incense as an offering. In Egypt, frankincense was used to paint the eyelids of women. It was also used as a hair remover and perfume. Frankincense is used most commonly as an incense that provides vapor. Description: Frankincense is obtained from a tree called Boswellia Thurifera. It grows in African and Arabia. It is obtained by cutting into the trunk of the tree and allowing the resin to harden to be harvested.
