Frankincense is obtained from the trees of the genus Boswellia of which there are four main species B. carteri, B. sacra, B. frereana and B. serrata which grow in hot and arid conditions from east Africa through southern Arabia and into north-western India. The trunks of the trees exude a sticky substance called oleo gum resin, which is obtained by making deep incisions in to the bark. After drying in the hot desert sun the hardened, pale yellow "tear" shaped resin is collected. Essential oils of frankincense can be obtained by either steam distilling or solvent extracting the crude resin obtained from the trees. Frankincense resin consists mainly of boswellic acid and alibanoresin.

The 2,000-foot Jebel Mahrat escarpment blocks the monsoon rains, creating a microclimate where frankincense trees grow.

An arabian vendor.

A Boswellia leaf.

Harvesting resin.