Boswellia dioscoridis resin seems like a tropical cousin of the African Boswellia frereana. When burned, this delightful frankincense conveys piney and woody base notes, with powdery hints of pineapple, mango, and coconut. This resin is particularly light and brittle. Though it often comes in large compound pieces, they are easily broken down, though this does not affect the quality.
Socotra, an island in the Indian Ocean, is home to several unique plant species. Among these are several dwarf species that naturally produce frankincense (Boswellia) and myrrh (Commiphora). Boswellia dioscoridis resin is relatively common form frankincense on Socotra, prized for its traditional uses. These days, climate change and overgrazing directly threaten the regeneration of the species, which is scattered across Socotra in small but widespread populations. My local partners harvest the resin with exquisite knowledge and care, monitoring populations and helping to protect trees wherever they can. They adhere to strict local customs intended to preserve forests and the sustainability of the ancient incense resin trade.
