Olibanum Resinoid

Olibanum resinoid was one of the first materials to be used as a perfume. Firstly burned as incense and used during religious ceremonies by ancient civilisations, it became extremely popular at the time of the pharaohs, where it was also used in the embalming process. It retained an important role in religions throughout the centuries, to purify the air, ward off evil spirits and soothe the environment.

The resin is mainly produced in Somaliland, an autonomous region in northern Somalia. This area is the home of more than half of the world's olibanum and myrrh trees, which have become endangered as farmers are forced to over-harvest due to the low prices they receive.

Lush buy olibanum oil and resinoid from two suppliers who work directly with Somali producers, guaranteeing fair prices and sustainable production. One is based in Morocco and the other in Vermont, USA, where they obtained the first organic certification for olibanum oil in the world. They sell the raw resin or distil it into a fragrant oil, that is known to be toning and soothing for the skin.