Difference in Frankincense and Sacred Frankincense

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Frankincense is an aromatic resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia. It has been used for thousands of years in religious ceremonies, traditional medicine, and perfumery. The resin is harvested by making incisions in the tree bark, allowing the sap to bleed out and harden into “tears.”

Once collected, the resin can be burned as incense or steam-distilled to produce essential oil. Frankincense is known for its calming, soothing, and anti-inflammatory properties, and is often used in aromatherapy and skincare products (find here over 100 DIY skincare recipes with frankincense oil).

In this article we will look at the difference in frankincense and sacred frankincense.

Difference in Frankincense and Sacred Frankincense

There are several types of frankincense, among which Sacred Frankincense stands out due to its unique qualities, origin, and traditional uses that differentiate it from the other varieties.

However, the terms “frankincense” and “sacred frankincense” are often used interchangeably, leading to confusion. Frankincense and Sacred Frankincense, while closely related, possess distinct characteristics that set them apart in terms of quality, origin, and traditional uses.

Frankincense, in general, refers to the resin obtained from trees of the genus Boswellia. It includes resins from various species, such as Boswellia sacra¹, Boswellia carterii², Boswellia frereana³, and Boswellia serrata⁴.

Sacred frankincense typically refers specifically to the resin derived from the Boswellia sacra species, which is native to Oman, Yemen, and Somalia.

The resin from the Boswellia sacra is considered the highest quality frankincense and is often referred to as “Hojari” or “Omani” frankincense. The term “sacred” is used to emphasize its superior quality, rarity, and its historical and religious significance.

While both frankincense and sacred frankincense have similar therapeutic properties and uses, the quality, aroma, and potency of the resin from Boswellia sacra are considered superior to those from other species.

As a result, sacred frankincense is often more expensive and sought after for its perceived higher effectiveness in aromatherapy and other traditional uses.

How many species of the genus Boswellia are there?

There are several species of Boswellia trees that produce frankincense, with the main ones being:

1. Boswellia sacra: Native to Oman, Yemen, and Somalia, it produces the highest quality frankincense, often referred to as “Hojari” or “Omani” frankincense.
2. Boswellia carterii: Found in Somalia and parts of the Arabian Peninsula, it is a close relative of Boswellia sacra and produces a resin similar in quality.
3. Boswellia frereana: Also native to Somalia, this species produces a type of frankincense called “Maydi” or “Yemenite frankincense,” which is highly valued for its fragrance and therapeutic properties.
4. Boswellia serrata: This species is found in India and produces a resin known as “Indian frankincense” or “Salai guggul.” It is often used in Ayurvedic medicine.

There may be other species and subspecies of Boswellia that produce frankincense, but these are the most commonly recognized ones.

The resin from these species can further vary in color, aroma, and quality depending on factors such as the time of harvest, environmental conditions, and tree age.

Is Boswellia sacra really superior to all the others?

Boswellia sacra which is the source of sacred frankincense, is often considered superior to the other frankincense-producing species due to different factors, for example:

1. The quality: The resin from Boswellia sacra is typically of higher quality, with a distinct aroma, color, and texture that set it apart from other species. The chemical composition of Boswellia sacra resin is known to have a higher concentration of certain therapeutic compounds, such as alpha-pinene, which may contribute to its perceived superiority (more on this below).
2. Historical as well as religious significance: Boswellia sacra has been used for thousands of years in religious and cultural ceremonies, particularly in the Middle East. Its long-standing history and association with spiritual and religious practices lend an aura of reverence and importance to the resin.
3. Rarity and exclusivity: Boswellia sacra trees grow primarily in Oman, Yemen, and Somalia, with the highest quality resin often coming from Oman. The limited geographic range and strict harvesting regulations in Oman make the resin more rare and exclusive, adding to its perceived value.

However, it’s important to note that the quality of frankincense resin can vary widely depending on factors such as the specific tree, environmental conditions, and harvesting methods.

While Boswellia sacra is generally considered superior, other species like Boswellia carterii and Boswellia frereana can also produce high-quality frankincense with similar therapeutic properties. Personal preferences for aroma and application may also influence one’s perception of superiority.

Differences in chemical composition between the species & uses

The chemical composition of frankincense resin can vary among different Boswellia species, which contributes to differences in their aroma, therapeutic properties, and quality. Here are some of the notable differences in composition between Boswellia sacra and other types:

1. Boswellia sacra: The resin from this species has a higher concentration of alpha-pinene, a compound known for its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties. It also contains a significant amount of limonene, another compound with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The combination of these compounds, among others, contributes to the unique aroma and therapeutic properties of Boswellia sacra. Suitable for skincare products and traditional medicine.
2. Boswellia carterii: This species is closely related to Boswellia sacra, and their chemical compositions are quite similar. Both species contain high levels of alpha-pinene and limonene, which contribute to their similar therapeutic properties. However, the specific proportions of these and other compounds may vary between the two species, resulting in subtle differences in aroma and quality. Suitable for skincare products, and traditional medicine.
3. Boswellia frereana: The resin from this species has a different chemical profile compared to Boswellia sacra and Boswellia carterii. It contains higher amounts of compounds like incensole and incensole acetate, which are known for their anti-inflammatory and psychoactive properties. Boswellia frereana resin has a distinct aroma and is highly valued for its fragrance and therapeutic properties. Often used in high-end perfumery and incense blends, and it is valued for its calming, mood-enhancing effects. It can be helpful for emotional and mental well-being.
4. Boswellia serrata: Also known as Indian frankincense, the resin from this species has a unique chemical composition, with higher levels of compounds like β-boswellic acid and acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA). These compounds are known for their anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties and are used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments, such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel diseases.

While these are some of the primary differences in chemical composition among the various Boswellia species, it’s important to remember that environmental factors, tree age, and harvesting methods can also influence the composition and quality of the frankincense resin.

The below table reflects the differences between the Boswellia species, their benefits, properties and uses:

Type of Frankincense	Species	Origin	Chemical Composition	Benefits, Properties & Uses
Sacred Frankincense	Boswellia sacra	Oman, Yemen, and Somalia	High in alpha-pinene, limonene, and other monoterpenes	Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, analgesic, calming, soothing.  Suitable for skincare products and traditional medicine.
Carterii Frankincense	Boswellia carterii	Somalia and Arabian Peninsula	Similar to Boswellia sacra, high in alpha-pinene, limonene	Anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, analgesic, calming, soothing. Suitable for skincare products, and traditional medicine.
Maydi Frankincense	Boswellia frereana	Somalia	High in incensole, incensole acetate, and other unique compounds	Anti-inflammatory, psychoactive, valued for fragrance. Often used in high-end perfumery and incense blends, and it is valued for its calming, mood-enhancing effects.
Indian Frankincense	Boswellia serrata	India	High in β-boswellic acid, acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid (AKBA)	Anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat various ailments, such as arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel diseases.

The chemical compositions mentioned are not exhaustive, and the specific concentrations of these compounds can vary depending on factors such as tree age, environmental conditions, and harvesting methods. The benefits and properties listed are not exhaustive, and there may be other potential uses and effects associated with each type of frankincense.

Similarities and differences between Boswellia sacra and Boswellia carterii

There are many similarities between Boswellia sacra and Boswellia carterii and it is worth looking into the similarities as well as the differences more closely.

Similarities:

1. Genus: Both belong to the Boswellia genus, known for producing aromatic resins used in incense, perfumery, and traditional medicine.
2. Chemical composition: Both species have similar chemical compositions, containing high levels of compounds like alpha-pinene and limonene.
3. Therapeutic properties: Both species share anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, analgesic, calming, and soothing properties.
4. Skin benefits: The resins from both species can reduce inflammation, promote healing, and improve the appearance of scars and blemishes when used in skincare products. Here’s an article on benefits of frankincense oil on face.

Differences:

1. Origin: Boswellia sacra is native to Oman, Yemen, and Somalia, while Boswellia carterii is primarily found in Somalia and parts of the Arabian Peninsula.
2. Quality and aroma: Boswellia sacra, or Sacred Frankincense, is often considered to be of higher quality due to its unique aroma, historical significance, and slightly higher concentration of certain compounds like alpha-pinene.
3. Therapeutic potency: Boswellia sacra may offer more effective relief from inflammation, pain, and various skin conditions due to its higher concentration of therapeutic compounds.
4. Aromatherapy: Boswellia sacra’s unique aroma is often preferred for its more complex and richer fragrance, enhancing the overall experience during meditation, relaxation, and other spiritual practices.
5. Traditional medicine: While both species have been used for similar purposes in traditional medicine, some people might prefer Boswellia sacra for its historical significance and perceived higher potency.

Although Boswellia sacra and Boswellia carterii have many similarities, subtle differences in origin, quality, and therapeutic properties can influence individual preferences for one species over the other.

Can boswellia carterii achieve the same therapeutic effects as boswelia sacra?

Yes, Boswellia carterii can achieve similar therapeutic effects as Boswellia sacra due to their closely related chemical compositions.

Both species contain high levels of compounds like alpha-pinene and limonene, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, analgesic, calming, and soothing properties.

While Boswellia sacra is often considered to have a slightly higher potency due to its higher concentration of certain compounds, the overall therapeutic effects of Boswellia carterii are still highly beneficial. Personal preferences for aroma, quality, and origin may influence the choice between the two species, but both can provide effective relief from inflammation, pain, and various skin conditions when used in skincare products, aromatherapy, and traditional medicine.

Comparative overview of key chemical compounds in Boswellia sacra and Boswellia carterii

While Boswellia sacra generally has a higher concentration of alpha-pinene, the overall chemical compositions of the two species are quite similar as you can see in the below table. This similarity contributes to the comparable therapeutic effects of the resins from both Boswellia sacra and Boswellia carterii. Keep in mind that this table does not represent an exhaustive list of compounds, and there may be other subtle differences in the chemical compositions of the two species.

Compound	Boswellia sacra	Boswellia carterii
Alpha-pinene5	Higher	Lower
Limonene6	Similar	Similar
Myrcene7	Similar	Similar
Sabinene8	Similar	Similar
Beta-caryophyllene9	Similar	Similar

About each compound:

Here’s a brief overview of the key chemical compounds mentioned in the table and their properties:

1. Alpha-pinene: Alpha-pinene is a monoterpene and is one of the primary components in many essential oils, including frankincense. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, bronchodilatory (helps open up airways), and antimicrobial properties. Alpha-pinene also contributes to the characteristic woody, pine-like aroma of frankincense.
2. Limonene: Limonene is another monoterpene commonly found in the essential oils of citrus fruits and some conifers. It possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Limonene also has a pleasant citrus-like aroma and may help promote relaxation.
3. Myrcene: Myrcene is a monoterpene found in many essential oils, including frankincense, hops, and lemongrass. It is known for its analgesic (pain-relieving), anti-inflammatory, and sedative properties. Myrcene contributes to the earthy, musky aroma of frankincense.
4. Sabinene: Sabinene is a monoterpene found in various essential oils, such as black pepper, juniper, and frankincense. It has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. Sabinene imparts a spicy, woody, and slightly citrusy aroma to frankincense.
5. Beta-caryophyllene: Beta-caryophyllene is a sesquiterpene found in many essential oils, including frankincense, black pepper, and cloves. It is known for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and potential neuroprotective properties. Beta-caryophyllene contributes a spicy, warm, and woody aroma to frankincense.

Monoterpenes are a class of organic compounds composed of two isoprene units (10 carbon atoms), while sesquiterpenes consist of three isoprene units (15 carbon atoms), resulting in different molecular structures, properties, and biological activities.

These compounds work synergistically to give frankincense its unique therapeutic properties and characteristic scent.

The specific concentrations of these compounds can vary depending on factors such as tree age, environmental conditions, and harvesting methods, which may result in subtle differences in the properties and aroma of the resins from different frankincense species.

Frequenty Asked Questions

What is Sacred Frankincense?

Sacred Frankincense, also known as Boswellia sacra, is a type of frankincense resin obtained from the Boswellia sacra tree native to Oman, Yemen, and Somalia. It is highly valued for its unique aroma, historical significance, and therapeutic properties, which include anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, analgesic, calming, and soothing effects. Sacred Frankincense is often used in aromatherapy, meditation, skincare products, and traditional medicine.

Which is better frankincense or Sacred Frankincense?

Choosing between frankincense and Sacred Frankincense largely depends on personal preferences and the intended use. Sacred Frankincense, derived from the Boswellia sacra tree, is often considered to be of higher quality due to its unique aroma, historical significance, and slightly higher concentration of certain therapeutic compounds like alpha-pinene.

However, other types of frankincense, such as Boswellia carterii, have similar therapeutic properties and can also provide beneficial effects. The choice between the two may be influenced by factors such as aroma, quality, origin, and the specific application, whether it be for aromatherapy, skincare, or traditional medicine.

Both frankincense and Sacred Frankincense have their unique properties, and one is not necessarily better than the other.

Which frankincense is best for healing?

When it comes to healing properties, both Sacred Frankincense (Boswellia sacra) and Carterii Frankincense (Boswellia carterii) are considered highly effective due to their similar chemical compositions and therapeutic properties. They both contain high levels of alpha-pinene, limonene, and other monoterpenes, which contribute to their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties.

For general healing purposes, either of these types of frankincense can be a good choice. However, if you are looking for specific healing properties, other types of frankincense might be more suitable:

1. Maydi Frankincense (Boswellia frereana): Known for its mood-enhancing and psychoactive properties, Maydi frankincense can be helpful for emotional and mental well-being.
2. Indian Frankincense (Boswellia serrata): Commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine, this type of frankincense is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties, making it a good choice for treating arthritis, asthma, and inflammatory bowel diseases.

Ultimately, the best frankincense for healing depends on the specific ailment or condition you are trying to address and your personal preferences for aroma and quality.

It’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional, aromatherapist, or herbalist to determine the most suitable type of frankincense for your needs.

References

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3. Johnson S, DeCarlo A, Satyal P, Dosoky NS, Sorensen A, Setzer WN. The Chemical Composition of Single-Tree Boswellia frereana Resin Samples. Natural Product Communications [Internet]. 2021 [cited 2023 Apr 23]; 16(9):1934578X2110437. Available from: http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/1934578X211043727.
4. Boswellia serrata – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics [Internet]. [cited 2023 Apr 23]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/pharmacology-toxicology-and-pharmaceutical-science/boswellia-serrata#:~:text=Boswellia%20serrata%2C%20also%20known%20as%20H15%20or%20indish%20incense%2C%20is,vitro%2C%20it%20decreases%20leukotriene%20synthesis.&text=A%20double%2Dblind%20pilot%20study,H15%20showed%20no%20measurable%20efficacy.
5. Alpha-Pinene – an overview | ScienceDirect Topics [Internet]. [cited 2023 Apr 23]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/agricultural-and-biological-sciences/alpha-pinene.
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7. Surendran S, Qassadi F, Surendran G, Lilley D, Heinrich M. Myrcene—What Are the Potential Health Benefits of This Flavouring and Aroma Agent? Front Nutr [Internet]. 2021 [cited 2023 Apr 23]; 8:699666. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8326332/.
8. Shah MB, Liu J, Huo L, Zhang Q, Dearing MD, Wilderman PR, et al. Structure-Function Analysis of Mammalian CYP2B Enzymes Using 7-Substituted Coumarin Derivatives as Probes: Utility of Crystal Structures and Molecular Modeling in Understanding Xenobiotic Metabolism. Mol Pharmacol [Internet]. 2016 [cited 2023 Apr 23]; 89(4):435–45. Available from: http://molpharm.aspetjournals.org/lookup/doi/10.1124/mol.115.102111.
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