Traditional Use of Frankincense
Frankincense has been used in countless ways for its various medicinal properties. In Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Somalia and Sudan, the resin of Boswelia papyrifera and Boswelia sacra is chewed and used in rituals. In Ethiopia, the paste of Boswelia papyrifera is used as an antifungal and in perfumes and incense.
In Kenya, the smoke produced by the resin of Boswellia neglecta, when burned, is believed to repel snakes and flies. Also in Oman, Boswelia sacra is often used as an insect repellent. In some parts of Africa, gum and resin are used as an adhesive and ink.
Frankincense resin is used as incense for ceremonies around the world; It is also used in Ayurvedic, Unani and Chinese medicines. Additionally, Boswellia serrata is included in the Indian Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia, the European Pharmacopoeia, and the United States Pharmacopoeia.