Probably best known because of the Nativity story, Frankincense - derived from the resin of a frankincense tree called Boswellia serrata and other species of the same - has an interesting history. In Hebrew, its name is levonah, meaning "white;" in Arabic, a closely-related language, it is 'al-luban, a term referring to milk; the name of the modern country of Lebanon is derived from both. However, it came to be known as "frankincense" when crusaders - many of whom were French or "Frankish" - introduced it to Europe during the Middle Ages. The boswellia tree can be found in regions such as East Africa and the Middle East.
Dried Frankincense carterii or frankincense serrata is used in numerous ways, including the manufacture of perfume and aromatherapy; ancient Egyptians used burnt powdered frankincense as eyeliner. Since ancient times, the burning of the dried c/s boswellia serrata resin has also played a part in the religious ceremonies of all three Abrahamic traditions. Frankincense extract or Frankincense carterii also yields many health benefits, as its aroma may help with stress and anxiety.