Boswellia dalzielii

Boswellia dalzielii essential oil, derived from the resin of the Boswellia tree native to West Africa, offers a range of potential benefits, similar to other types of frankincense. Here are some of its notable uses and advantages:

1. Anti-inflammatory & Pain Relief

• Boswellia dalzielii is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in easing conditions like arthritis, joint pain, and muscle soreness.
• It can help reduce swelling and promote better mobility, particularly in conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.

2. Respiratory Support

• This essential oil is beneficial for respiratory issues, as it acts as a natural expectorant. It helps clear mucus from the airways and can alleviate symptoms of conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and sinus congestion.
• Its soothing qualities can also promote easier breathing and reduce irritation in the throat.

3. Skin Health

• With its antiseptic and healing properties, Boswellia dalzielii oil can support the treatment of wounds, cuts, abrasions, and scars.
• It may also help reduce acne, eczema, and other skin irritations by calming inflammation and promoting skin regeneration.

4. Stress Relief & Mood Enhancement

• Like other types of frankincense, Boswellia dalzielii essential oil has a calming and grounding effect that makes it useful in reducing stress, anxiety, and tension.
• It promotes a sense of relaxation and emotional balance, making it ideal for meditation and spiritual practices.

5. Immune System Support

• The oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help support the body’s natural defenses against infections and illnesses.
• Regular use may contribute to overall immune system strengthening.

6. Digestive Health

• When used appropriately, this oil can also help with digestive issues, such as indigestion, bloating, and gas.
• Its soothing qualities can promote gut health and reduce discomfort after meals.

7. Anti-aging & Skin Rejuvenation

• Its ability to promote skin cell regeneration makes it a potential tool in anti-aging treatments, reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by improving skin tone and texture.

Boswellia dalzielii is native to West Africa, specifically found in regions such as Nigeria, Cameroon, and Ghana. It grows in dry, tropical forests and savannas, typically in the Sahel zone, which is a transitional region between the Sahara Desert and the Sudanian savanna.

The harvest and supply of Boswellia dalzielii, like other Boswellia species, are influenced by several socioeconomic factors, particularly in West Africa where it is predominantly found. These factors impact the livelihoods of harvesters, trade practices, and the sustainability of the supply chain. Here are some key socioeconomic considerations:

1. Economic Dependence on Resin Harvesting

• Boswellia dalzielii resin is a significant source of income for rural communities in countries like Nigeria, Ghana, and Cameroon.
• Local harvesters, often from agro-pastoral communities, rely on the sale of frankincense resin as a primary livelihood, especially in remote regions where alternative economic opportunities may be limited.
• Middlemen and traders, who act as intermediaries in the supply chain, often control the market, which can lead to price fluctuations and low wages for the local harvesters.

2. Impact of Global Demand

• The global market demand for essential oils, incense, and natural remedies has led to an increase in the value of Boswellia resin, benefiting some harvesters. However, it can also encourage unsustainable harvesting practices, where the focus on profit outweighs conservation.
• Export markets, particularly in Europe, North America, and the Middle East, contribute to price volatility, as supply chains are affected by global trends and market dynamics.

3. Labor and Working Conditions

• Harvesting Boswellia dalzielii resin requires skilled labor, as it involves tapping the trees without damaging them. However, in some regions, harvesters may experience poor working conditions, long hours, and low pay, especially if the supply chain is dominated by middlemen who take a significant portion of the profits.
• Child labor and exploitation can be prevalent in some areas where families are dependent on the resin trade, though efforts are being made to improve labor standards through ethical sourcing initiatives.

4. Environmental Degradation and Sustainability

• Overharvesting of Boswellia trees, if not managed properly, can lead to environmental degradation, threatening the long-term viability of the species and disrupting local ecosystems.
• Climate change and deforestation in West Africa can also negatively affect the availability of Boswellia dalzielii resin, leading to further economic uncertainty for harvesters who depend on the trees for income.
• Sustainable harvesting practices are critical to prevent the depletion of these trees, and there are efforts to establish conservation programs and reforestation initiatives.

5. Supply Chain Challenges and Political Instability

• The supply chain for Boswellia dalzielii resin is often affected by regional instability, particularly in countries that have experienced political or economic challenges.
• Logistical difficulties, such as poor infrastructure and lack of access to reliable transportation, can lead to delays and increased costs in getting the resin to markets.
• In some conflict-prone areas, smuggling and illegal trade can undermine legitimate markets, reducing revenue for local harvesters and disrupting ethical trade.

6. Role of Fair Trade and Ethical Sourcing Initiatives

• Fair Trade organizations are working to improve the economic conditions of Boswellia resin harvesters by promoting ethical sourcing and sustainable harvesting practices.
• Fair Wild certification and other ethical sourcing programs ensure that harvesters are paid fairly and that the trees are harvested in a way that protects the ecosystem and ensures long-term sustainability.
• These initiatives also encourage community involvement and local ownership in decision-making processes, ensuring that benefits from the resin trade are more equitably distributed.

7. Gender and Social Factors

• In many rural communities, women play a significant role in harvesting and processing resin, but their contributions may often be under-recognized, and they may face gender-based inequalities in wages and decision-making.
• Empowering women in the resin trade through education, better labor conditions, and fair pay can contribute to improved socioeconomic outcomes for entire communities.

Sourcing Boswellia dalzielii sustainably and ethically involves a combination of practices that promote both environmental conservation and the well-being of the local communities involved in harvesting the resin. Here are some key steps and considerations for ensuring ethical and sustainable sourcing:

1. Work with Certified Suppliers

• Fair Trade and Ethical Certification: Look for suppliers who are Fair Trade Certified or hold FairWild certification. These certifications ensure that the resin is harvested in a way that benefits local communities and protects the environment.
• Suppliers with these certifications ensure that harvesters receive fair wages, and that the trees are tapped sustainably, avoiding overharvesting and ensuring the long-term viability of the species.

2. Support Sustainable Harvesting Practices

• Regulated Harvesting: Boswellia trees should be tapped in a way that does not damage the tree or deplete its resources. Sustainable tapping involves making controlled cuts in the bark to collect the resin while allowing the tree to regenerate and continue producing resin.
• Harvesters should be trained in sustainable techniques to avoid over-tapping, which can lead to tree damage, reduced resin yield, and eventual tree death.

3. Promote Reforestation and Conservation Efforts

• Support or partner with organizations working on reforestation and conservation projects in the regions where Boswellia dalzielii grows. This can include planting new Boswellia trees and protecting existing forests from deforestation and other environmental threats.
• Agroforestry initiatives that integrate Boswellia trees with other crops can help create diverse and resilient ecosystems, benefiting both the environment and the farmers.

4. Engage in Fair and Transparent Trade

• Transparent Supply Chains: Engage with suppliers who ensure transparency in their supply chains, from the harvesters to the final product. This can be done by promoting traceability, which helps ensure that the resin is ethically sourced and that profits are fairly distributed.
• Direct Trade: If possible, establish direct relationships with harvesters or cooperatives, ensuring that they receive a fair share of the profits and that the quality and sustainability of the resin are upheld.

5. Support Community Empowerment

• Ethical sourcing involves more than just environmental considerations—it also includes promoting the well-being of local communities. Look for initiatives that focus on community empowerment, such as:
• Providing fair wages to harvesters.
• Supporting women’s involvement in the harvesting and processing of resin, ensuring that they have equal access to economic opportunities.
• Offering healthcare and education programs for local communities that rely on the Boswellia trade.

6. Avoid Overharvesting and Encourage Regeneration

• Quota Systems: Encourage or support the implementation of harvesting quotas to limit the amount of resin harvested from each tree. This ensures that the tree is not overexploited and can continue producing resin in the future.
• Tree Protection: Support efforts that ensure Boswellia trees are protected from illegal logging, wildfires, and other forms of destruction that could threaten their long-term survival.

7. Advocate for Policy and Regulation

• Engage with local and international organizations that are working to regulate the trade of Boswellia dalzielii and promote sustainable practices. This can include working with organizations like the IUCN, CITES, and local government agencies to implement better conservation and trade policies.
• Support the development of sustainable certification programs that promote both environmental sustainability and social fairness in the Boswellia resin supply chain.

8. Educate Consumers

• Raise awareness among consumers about the importance of sustainable sourcing of Boswellia essential oils and other Boswellia products. Encourage them to choose products that are ethically sourced and promote practices that contribute to environmental conservation and community empowerment.

By integrating these practices, you can help ensure that Boswellia dalzielii is sourced in a way that respects both the environment and the people who depend on it for their livelihoods. This approach promotes sustainability, fairness, and long-term resilience for both the trees and the communities involved in the trade.

Boswellia dalzielii, commonly known as a West African frankincense tree, is currently classified as a species of Least Concern (LC) by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List.  This status indicates that, at present, the species does not face significant threats that would warrant a more critical conservation status.

The oil found in the sample with each print is purchased from Apothecary’s Garden.  A company that believes in sustainable and ethical sourcing.

As part of the Endangered Species Project, in collaboration with the Airmid Institute, 50% of all print sale profits will be donated each year to support the Airmid Institute’s mission—helping to build stronger, more ethical, and sustainable supply chains.