Indian frankincense comes from the sabal tree (Boswellia serrata), see frankincense tree. The greenish-pale bark of this large tree peels off in smooth, papery strips.
If the bark is damaged, a yellowish-brownish gum resin solidifies into lumps. Harvesting takes place in March and June, the injuries are set months in advance. Approximately kg resin/year can be obtained per tree.
The air-dried gum resin (Indian frankincense - Olibanum indicum), which is excreted when the trunk and branches are injured, is used phytotherapeutically.
Quality is defined in the European Pharmacopoeia (Ph. Eur.) - H 15.
Commission E: not processed.
Not yet processed by the HMPC.
ESCOP monograph: for painful joint arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease.
Ayurvedic medicine: Supportive treatment for chronic polyarthritis, remission treatment for inflammatory bowel disease ulcerative colitis, Crohn's disease.
Efficacy confirmed in clinical studies for inflammatory bowel diseases. No final assessment and approval in Germany yet. Standardized preparations approved abroad can be used in individual prescriptions.
Aromatherapy: The essential oil obtained is used for anxiety and tension.
Cosmetics industry: see under Boswellia serrata extract (INCI).