Introduction
Gum resins (Frankincense, Myrrh and Opoponax) are, like gum Arabic, important commodities from the dry lands of sub-Saharan Africa with potential for spurring economic development of the communities and countries in the region.
The gum resins are produced in the rural and remote areas of producing countries, traded in urban centers and used in some of the sophisticated cities in the world and they therefore touch on the lives of a wide cross section of mankind in the society. Sound development of these commodities will thus have a huge impact on many people, and especially, the poor communities living in the rural areas in Africa who have fewer options for economic development due to the harsh climatic conditions.
The term “resin” applies to the exudate of a tree which is the result of the hydrocarbon secretion common to many plants, generally of coniferous trees like cedars, cypresses, pines and our own boswellia and commiphoras, the trees producing frankincense and myrrh. Tree resins have been valued for centuries for their chemical worth and also for valuable uses such as producing adhesives, varnishes, and even food glazing agents.
“Frankincense” is an oleo gum-resin which is also called olibanum, and the resin is harvested from several Boswellia species within the Burseraceae family: The species most commonly used for tapping and commercialization of the resource are Boswellia sacra (mostly present in Somalia), Boswellia serrata (India), Boswellia papyrifera (Ethiopia, Sudan) and Boswellia neglecta (Kenya, Somalia). The latter is what is collected in Kenya.
“Myrrh” is a resin that comes from the family of trees known as “Commiphora”. In Kenya there are several types of resins exuding commiphora, such as C.Guidotti, C.Confusa and C.Africana although the main types for commercialization are C.Myrrha (called “malmal” in Somali) and C.Holtziana (Hagar in Somali); this resin is commonly found in the Arabic peninsula, the Horn and East Africa. Traditionally, the resin and the essential oil were used for embalming and treating hay fever, it was popular as a fragrance, a flavoring agent and an antiseptic to treat wounds and reduce bleeding.
Frankincense
Frankincense Oil is among the most widely used of all essential oils.
Its benefits are numerous, and it has been used extensively in traditional cultures for many thousands of years. Frankincense oil is revered for its powerfully uplifting and clarifying effects on the body and mind. When diffused in your home, it provides protection for you and your family encourages healthy moods. It will turn the fragrance of your home into that of a temple! A few drops of this high-quality frankincense oil can be applied to the palms, rubbed together and directly inhaled.
This produces an instantaneous clarifying effect and a strong activation of the life-force (prana). Frankincense essential oil can also be mixed with a carrier oil such as coconut or sesame and massaged into the skin to help the body stay limber and relaxed. It is particularly helpful for those who practice yoga. A few drops of the oil can be sprinkled on a hot, wet towel and applied to the chest to open the lungs and enhance deep breathing.
Among frankincense’s many attributes is its use as a spiritual tool for ritual, prayer and meditation. Used in worship for thousands of years, it is valued both for its many healing powers and for its intoxicating fragrance. Frankincense can properly be said to belong to the family of sacred scents.
Myrrh
Myrrh essential oil has been used for thousands of years in traditional healing therapies and religious ceremonies.
For centuries, it has been valued for its diverse applications, including as a fragrance, in embalming practices, and as a flavoring agent in food. Historically, it has played a role in treating hay fever, serving as an antiseptic for wound care, and as a paste to halt bleeding.
In traditional Chinese medicine, myrrh has been a staple, reflecting its enduring significance. Ancient Egyptians primarily used myrrh for embalming, while it featured prominently in Jewish ritual as a component of holy anointing oil for worship services.
One of the most evocative uses of myrrh was the burning of its resin over hot coals, which infused spaces with a profound, spiritual ambiance before religious rites. Its meditative properties have also made it a popular choice in aromatherapy and spiritual practices, often combined with frankincense.
Myrrh Oil Benefits
Myrrh oil has many potential benefits, although further research is needed to determine the exact mechanisms of how it works and dosages for therapeutic benefits.
01Potent Antioxidant
A 2010 animal study published in the Journal of Food and Chemical Toxicology discovered that myrrh's high antioxidant capacity could protect against liver damage in rabbits. This suggests potential applications for human use, although further research is needed.
02Anticancer Benefits
Research showed that myrrh could reduce the proliferation of human cancer cells and inhibit growth in eight types of cancer cells, particularly gynecological cancers. While promising, additional studies are required to understand its full potential in cancer treatment.
03Antibacterial Benefits
Historically, myrrh was used to treat wounds and prevent infections. It remains effective for minor skin irritations like athlete’s foot, ringworm, and acne. For best results, apply a few drops to a clean towel before applying directly to the affected area.
04Anti-Parasitic
Myrrh has been incorporated into medications for treating fascioliasis, a parasitic worm infection prevalent worldwide with medication shown to reduce symptoms and lower parasite egg counts in feces.
05Skin Health
Myrrh contributes to skin health by soothing chapped or cracked skin. It is commonly used in skincare products for moisturizing and fragrance. Historically, ancient Egyptians utilized it to prevent aging and promote healthy skin.
06Relaxation
In aromatherapy, myrrh is used for its relaxing properties. It can be added to a warm bath, used in massages, or applied directly to the skin to enhance relaxation and stress relief.
Opoponax
(Sometimes called “sweet myrrh” and “hagar” in Somali language)
For many centuries, Sweet Myrrh – Opoponax has been used in perfumery and for treating wounds and clearing respiratory congestion. Sweet Myrrh essential oil exerts a drying action on mucous membranes, allowing relief from bronchitis, colds, sore throats, and coughs. Similar to Frankincense and Myrrh, Opoponax is used for its antiseptic and anti-parasitic properties. The oil also possesses powerful relief for stomach ailments, arthritis, inflammation, and muscle pain.
Opoponax Essential Oil Benefits
01Introduction
Opoponax essential oil offers several benefits: it decongests mucus in the respiratory tract, treats stomach ailments, has anti-inflammatory properties, stimulates circulation, and has antiseptic qualities for treating wounds and bruises.
02History
King Solomon used it as one of the major components of incense for temple rituals, while the Chinese used it for homeopathic treatments. Traditionally the Somali used it to treat stomach ailments and wounds. In other parts of the world, the resins were used treat arthritis.
03Instruction For Use
The Opoponax Oil can be applied topically on the body spots that need soothing or treatment from infection. It can also be blended for massage purposes. It can be directly inhaled via steam to decongest the respiratory tract. Diffusion can also enable its use as a mild aphrodisiac.
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ABOUT US
African Agency for Arid Resources (AGAR) Ltd is a Kenya based company dealing with natural resources in the ASAL (Arid and Semi-Arid Lands) areas of East Africa.