Collecting frankincense resin from Boswellia trees — from tree to resin

The frankincense tree (Boswellia sacra) is a small to medium-sized tree with a height ranging between 2-8 meters. It grows in arid and semi-arid regions in southern Arabia (Dhofar in Oman, Hadramawt in Yemen, and the southern region in Saudi Arabia) and East Africa. It is characterized by papery, peeling bark, compound pinnate leaves, and small white flowers tinged with yellow. The tree typically grows on rocky limestone slopes.

The frankincense harvesting season begins in late February or March and continues until September. Harvesting takes place during the dry season when the trees have less growth and the resin is thicker and of higher quality. In the Omani Dhofar region, the first harvest (lowest quality) occurs in March-April, the second harvest (medium quality) in May-June, and the third harvest (highest quality) in July-September.

After tapping, the milky white resin begins to seep from the cracks within hours. This viscous liquid gradually hardens when exposed to air. Leave the resin to harden on the tree for 10-14 days. During this period, the tears transform from a milky white color to transparent yellow or amber. Do not touch the tears while they are soft.

Spread frankincense tears in a single layer on a flat tray or mat in a dark, dry place with good ventilation. Do not expose them to direct, scorching sunlight because excessive heat melts the resin and causes it to lose its volatile oils. Leave the tears to dry for 2-3 weeks. Turn them every 2-3 days to dry evenly.