There are different frankincense trees (Boswellia) in the dry regions of Africa and India (e.g. in Somalia, Ethiopia and Arabia). Depending on their origin, a distinction is made between the Somali frankincense tree = Boswellia frereana, the East African frankincense tree = Boswellia carteri or the Indian frankincense tree = Boswellia serrata. Frankincense trees belong to the balsam family.
Boswellia sacra, Boswellia carteri, Arabian frankincense tree, is a small, strongly branched tree with thick branches and a height of up to 5 m, papery bark. Flowering time: April.
Boswellia serrata, Indian frankincense tree, Salaibaum; Salphalbaum, is a medium-sized tree with a flat crown and thick - approx. 1 cm green bark that peels off in paper-thin strips.
Frankincense trees start to produce resin at the age of 8-10 years. They are tapped 2 to 3 times a year. During this frankincense harvest, the trees are incised on the trunk and branches. The tree secretes the frankincense resin from the injuries. Harvesting can only take place until the leaves emerge and flower, after which the trees must be protected. Indian frankincense is collected twice a year, in March and June). The wounds are placed in the tree months beforehand.
Indian frankincense is mainly used phytotherapeutically. The resin of this frankincense solidifies into yellowish to brownish lumps, Boswellia serrata Roxb (Olibanum indicum)