Frankincense

The word Frankincense evokes thoughts of the Magi especially around Christmas time. I lived in Oman for five years and this sweet smelling resin is very popular here. It grows Oman and is part of the culture of the country. A key ingredient in Arabic perfumes, it is also smoked in homes around evening time to repell insects, used as medicine and deodrant. This Christmas I came across two articles on the shortage of this wonderful sap
http://www.npr.org/2011/12/25/144193371/trees-in-trouble-grim-future-for-frankincense
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204552304577116741588910380.html