Oman: The heart of the Ancient Frankincense's Trail
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Oman was once one of the richest countries in the world: its wealth came from the lucrative frankincense trade. As far back as 5000 BC, it was transported by caravans across all of Arabia and it was traded for spices with India. Today Oman is known for its oil reserves, agriculture, fishing and now also tourism (tourists were finally allowed in the country in the 90s).
In Oman, Frankincense is considered a gift of God. Frankincense is historically connected with healing and spirituality in almost every culture and religion. MORE BELOW! |
The trees are not intentionally planted or watered. The trees do not like moisture and thrive in barren areas cooled by sea winds. It is very hot out there and there is very little rain...it is a tough tree! It is a symbol of life and it has been associated to the Tree of Life because it is 'Immortality' (it can live up to 100 years).
Frankincense and its aromatic oil can be found in souks throughout the middle east, but you'll get the premium resin only from Oman. The quality, scent and body can be identified by frankincense connoisseurs and, like a fine wine, varies greatly by each season and every year. I am currently testing four varieties and I wished I bought more in Muscat souk.
Frankincense use can be also placed in the ancient India Ayurveda system and it is believed to have several therapeutic applications. So far there are few studies that have proven their effect as a psychoactive drug that relieves depression and anxiety and other studies have found that patients receiving the extract showed significant improvement in their arthritis. No adverse effect has been so far recorded.
Frankincense and its aromatic oil can be found in souks throughout the middle east, but you'll get the premium resin only from Oman. The quality, scent and body can be identified by frankincense connoisseurs and, like a fine wine, varies greatly by each season and every year. I am currently testing four varieties and I wished I bought more in Muscat souk.
Frankincense use can be also placed in the ancient India Ayurveda system and it is believed to have several therapeutic applications. So far there are few studies that have proven their effect as a psychoactive drug that relieves depression and anxiety and other studies have found that patients receiving the extract showed significant improvement in their arthritis. No adverse effect has been so far recorded.