Incense/Olibanum (Somalia)

Incense, or olibanum, from Somalia is renowned for its warm, resinous, and slightly citrusy scent with rich, earthy and balsamic undertones. This classic note brings depth, tranquility, and an element of spiritual mystique to perfumes, often evoking ancient rituals and meditative spaces. Typically used as a base note, Somali incense adds a long-lasting and grounding quality to fragrances, blending harmoniously with woods, spices, and florals to create sophisticated and timeless compositions.

History & Production: Somalia has long been a significant source of high-quality incense, with the resin harvested from the Boswellia tree in arid regions. The production process involves making careful incisions in the tree’s bark to allow the sap to seep out and harden into resin droplets over time. Once collected, the resin is steam distilled or used in its raw form to produce the essential oil or incense. Valued for centuries in religious and ceremonial practices, Somali olibanum continues to be a cherished and luxurious ingredient in modern perfumery, known for its deep and spiritually resonant aroma.