FRANKINCENSE NEGLECTA ESSENTIAL OIL

Boswellia neglecta

Native to Somalia and Ethiopia, Frankincense neglecta is less commonly known than its more celebrated cousins. It grows in the arid and semi-arid dry forests of the Horn of Africa. Its drought-resistant nature makes it ideally suited for land restoration projects. Unlike other types of Frankincense that yield their tears only in response to deliberate wounding, Frankincense neglecta exudes its resin naturally. There is no need to cut it. Its thin bark breaks and oozes resin. Once hardened, collectors scrape it off the bark or pick it from the ground. Frankincense neglecta is easily identified by its dark colour and bits of bark that get stuck to it. The essential oil is distilled from the black resin.

Traditional
Although not as well-studied as other types of Frankincense, neglecta has a long history of use in local medicine traditions of East Africa. Like its more famous relatives, it is used as incense during religious festivals when making sacrifices or sending prayers to heaven. Its resinous, woody-spicy scent sanctifies the atmosphere.

Magical
Frankincense neglecta is ideal for rituals and ceremonies that honour Mother Earth and the wild spirit of the Green Man. It is cleansing and uplifting yet has an earthy energy that resonates with the base chakra and can help discharge nervous energy.

Scent
Frankincense neglecta oil has a fresh, woody, slightly spicy base with overtones of Pine and Lemon. It blends well with Cedarwood, Cypress, Lavender, Myrtle, Geranium, and Thyme.

Synonyms
Black Frankincense.

Country of origin
Kenya