The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has issued a warning that frankincense is at risk of extinction.
Main Species Affected:
- Five species of Boswellia on Socotra Island, Yemen have moved from Vulnerable to Endangered.
- One species has shifted from Vulnerable to Critically Endangered.
- Three species have been newly assessed as Critically Endangered.
Notable Boswellia Species:
- Boswellia serrata (Indian Frankincense)
- Boswellia carterii
- Boswellia sacra
Uses of Frankincense:
- Traditional Medicine: Used to treat inflammatory diseases such as asthma, arthritis, chronic pain, bowel diseases, and even cancer.
- Cultural & Religious Significance:
- One of the three gifts (along with gold and myrrh) presented to baby Jesus by the Magi, as mentioned in Matthew 2:11.
- Other Uses: Commonly used in perfumes, incense, and cosmetics.
(Source: DTE)
