Boswellia sacra
Boswellia sacra (olibanum-tree) is a tree in the Burseraceae family, which is the primary tree in the genus Boswellia from which is frankincense (a resinous dried sap) is harvested. The olibanum tree is plant native to the Great Sand Sea.
The Boswellia sacra is a small deciduous tree that grows to a height of 3 to 7 m, with one or more trunks, and the bark has the texture of paper, and can be easily removed. The tree has compound leaves and an odd number of leaflets that grow opposite to one another; the small, yellow-white flowers are gathered in axillary clusters composed of five petals, ten stamens, and a cup with five teeth; new leaves feature a downy covering. The fruit of the Boswellia sacra tree is a capsule approximately 1 cm long. On a steep slope, individual Boswellia sacra trees usually develop buttress roots that extends from the roots up into the base of the stem, which forms a cushion that adheres to the rock and ensures the stability of the tree.
The precious Resit
Boswellia trees start producing resin when they are about 8 to 10 years old.
The resin is extracted by making a small, shallow incision on the trunk or branches of the tree or by removing a portion of the crust of it. The resin is drained as a milky substance that coagulates in contact with air and is collected by hand.
Growing conditions vary significantly, affecting both tree development and resin produced. Trees in the narrow fog-laden zone where the desert meets the Aynafi Gate mountain range, a region known as the Nejd, grow extremely slowly and produce very high quality resin in large, white clumps.
Usage
Incense fragrances can be of such great strength that they obscure other less desirable odours. This utility led to the use of incense in funerary ceremonies because the incense could smother the scent of decay. An example, as well as of religious use, is the giant Thurible that swings from the ceiling of the Imperial Temple of Azunati.
Religious
Religious use of incense is prevalent in many cultures and may have roots in the practical and aesthetic uses, considering that many of these religions have little else in common. One common motif is incense as a form of sacrificial offering to a deity. Considering the distinct lack of deities in Anvil many cultures still use them as a way to remember their lost deities.
Time-keeper
Incense clocks are used to time social, medical and religious practices in parts of eastern Aturak. They are primarily used in Atouism as a timer of meditation and prayer. Different types of incense burn at different rates; therefore, different incense are used for different practices. The duration of burning ranges from minutes to months.
Aphrodisiac
Incense has been used as an aphrodisiac. Both ancient Dhelians and ancient Brevian mythology suggest the usage of incense by goddesses and nymphs. Incense is thought to heighten sexual desires and sexual attraction.
I love the many uses included here, particularly the incense clock! If that is a real thing, I'm delighted.