Boswellia sacra in South Arabian Peninsula: A Review

Abstract

Boswellia sacra, belonging to the genus Boswellia (family: Burseraceae), is a natural source of fragrant resin known as frankincense (Luban), which has held significant economic, medicinal, and religious importance since ancient Yemeni civilization. Predominantly distributed in the South Arabian Peninsula, frankincense resin contains diverse chemical compounds, including terpenoids, essential oils, gum acids, sesquiterpenes, phenolic compounds, and aldehydes, each contributing to its medicinal, therapeutic, and aromatic properties. The aromatic oleo-gum-resin from B. sacra is renowned for its use in traditional medicine to treat gastric disorders, hepatic ailments, and more. Additionally, frankincense finds applications in the cosmetic, perfume, beverage, and food industries due to its rich bioactive compounds, particularly boswellic acids and their derivatives. Although several studies have explored the constituents and pharmacological activities of frankincense, comprehensive research consolidating the valuable information on B. sacra is scarce. This review highlights the phytochemistry, traditional uses, and pharmacological activities of B. sacra, with a focus on its description, distribution, biochemical composition, and biological activities within the Arabian Peninsula. The aim is to provide a holistic understanding of B. sacra’s potential therapeutic applications and pharmacological properties.