An ancestral treasure from the Horn of Africa
Somali incense is one of the most precious and prized incenses in the world. Derived from the Boswellia frereana tree, this incense is harvested in extreme climatic conditions in the arid regions of the Horn of Africa. Since ancient times, Somalia has been renowned for the exceptional quality of its incense, which is used in religious rituals, traditional medicine and luxury perfumery.
What is Somali incense?
Somali incense is a natural resin harvested from the bark of trees in the Boswellia family. Unlike other types of incense such as Indian or Middle Eastern incense, Somali incense is often purer and more fragrant, with woody, lemony and slightly balsamic notes.
The different varieties of Somali incense
There are several types of incense in Somalia, each with its own special characteristics:
- Boswellia frereana: also known as "Royal incense", it is the most sought-after for its superior quality. It is appreciated for its sweetness and warm fragrance.
- Boswellia carterii: more widespread, it is often used in religious ceremonies and purification rituals.
- Boswellia neglecta: a more resinous and robust incense, used in particular for its medicinal properties.
Each variety of Somali incense is harvested using an ancient process. The tree is incised with a special blade to extract the resin, which is then left to dry for several weeks before being collected in grain form.
The benefits of Somali incense
Somali incense is renowned not only for its bewitching scent, but also for its many spiritual, physical and emotional benefits.
A powerful purifier:
For centuries, this incense has been used to cleanse places and ward off negative energies. Its light smoke purifies the atmosphere and creates a serene ambience, ideal for prayer and meditation.
A support for meditation and prayer:
Burning Somali incense helps to calm the mind and encourages concentration. Its subtle, comforting fragrance promotes a state of deep relaxation and facilitates spiritual connection.
A natural remedy with therapeutic virtues:
In traditional medicine, Somali incense is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It is often used for:
- Relieve joint and muscle pain.
- Reduce stress and anxiety thanks to its soothing effects on the nervous system.
- Improve the quality of sleep by promoting relaxation before bedtime.
How to use Somali incense?
Somali incense can be used in a variety of ways depending on your needs and intentions.
Burning incense on a glowing coal is the traditional method for releasing the aroma and purifying properties of incense. To do this, place a burning coal in a censer, wait for it to glow red, place a few grains of incense on the coal and let the smoke spread into the space.
Somali incense can also be used as an inhalant to soothe the respiratory tract. Simply place a few grains in a bowl of hot water and inhale the vapour released.
Some Somali incense extracts are transformed into essential oils, used for their relaxing and healing benefits. A drop of frankincense essential oil can be added to a massage oil or diffused in a perfume burner.
A precious incense for a unique sensory experience
Somali incense is much more than just a home fragrance. It is a veritable ancestral treasure, a link between nature and spirituality, between ancient traditions and modern practices.
Whether to purify a space, encourage meditation, relieve stress or simply enjoy its exceptional fragrance, Somali incense has established itself as an essential reference in the world of incense.
To burn this incense is to treat yourself to an olfactory journey of millennia-old origins, an invitation to serenity and inner well-being.
