Boswellia Serrata: The Indian Frankincense We Source and Why
There are approximately 25 species of Boswellia. Here is why we chose Boswellia serrata and what distinguishes it from other frankincense species.
Frankincense is not a single oil. It is a category of oils derived from the resin of Boswellia trees, of which there are approximately 25 species. The most commonly traded are Boswellia sacra (from Oman and Yemen), Boswellia carterii (from Somalia and Ethiopia), and Boswellia serrata (from India). Each has a distinct compound profile and a different character.
Why Boswellia serrata
Boswellia serrata is the species most extensively studied in the scientific literature, primarily as a resin extract for its boswellic acid content. The essential oil from Boswellia serrata has a warmer, more resinous character than the lighter, more citrusy Boswellia sacra. Its primary compounds are alpha-thujene, alpha-pinene, and limonene, with a compound profile that produces a grounded, woody base note in blends.
Sustainability considerations
Boswellia sacra trees in Oman and Yemen are under significant pressure from over-tapping. Research published in Nature Sustainability has documented declining populations of wild Boswellia trees across East Africa and the Arabian Peninsula, driven by increased global demand for frankincense oil. Boswellia serrata from India is cultivated rather than wild-harvested, which reduces this pressure.
Our sourcing
We source our Frankincense Serrata from a supplier in Rajasthan, India, who works with cultivated Boswellia serrata trees. The resin is steam-distilled, and the GC/MS report for each batch is provided. We are transparent about the species we use because the distinction matters both for quality and for sustainability.