The Burseraceae family, also known as the incense or frankincense family, is a group of flowering plants in the order Sapindales, comprising around 19 genera and more than 600 species. This family includes a range of trees, shrubs, and vines, many of which are known for their aromatic resins, such as frankincense, myrrh, and copal. Members of the Burseraceae family are economically significant for their resins, which are used in incense, perfumes, and traditional medicine.

General Description

Plants in the Burseraceae family share several characteristics:

• Resins: A defining feature of the Burseraceae family is the production of aromatic resins. These resins are often harvested from the bark of trees and have been used for centuries in incense, perfumes, and religious rituals.
• Leaves: The leaves of Burseraceae plants are typically compound, with leaflets that are usually arranged alternately. The leaflets are often leathery or glossy, and the leaf stalks are often swollen at the base.
• Flowers: The flowers are typically small and unisexual (either male or female), often arranged in dense clusters. They are usually inconspicuous, with five petals and numerous stamens. The flowers are primarily insect-pollinated.
• Fruits: The fruits are typically drupe-like or berry-like, containing a single seed. Some species in the Burseraceae family produce small, fleshy fruits that are edible to birds and other animals, aiding in seed dispersal.
• Stems and Roots: The plants in the Burseraceae family are primarily trees or shrubs, with some species climbing vines. The trees often have thick, gnarled bark, and in resin-producing species, the bark is sometimes tapped to collect the resin.

Chemical Composition

The Burseraceae family is best known for the production of aromatic resins, but these plants also contain other bioactive compounds:

• Essential oils and resins: The most well-known products of the Burseraceae family are the resins they produce. Frankincense (from Boswellia species) and myrrh (from Commiphora species) are both widely used for their pleasant aroma and medicinal properties. These resins contain compounds such as boswellic acids in frankincense, which have anti-inflammatory properties, and terpenes in myrrh, which are known for their antiseptic and healing qualities.
• Flavonoids: Some species of Burseraceae, particularly those in the Commiphora genus, contain flavonoids, which are known for their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.
• Tannins: Many species in the family produce tannins, which are astringent compounds with antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Tannins can help in wound healing and have been used in traditional medicine.

Physical Properties

Plants in the Burseraceae family are known for the following physical traits:

• Fruits and Seeds: The fruits are generally drupe-like or berry-like, often containing a single seed. The fruits are typically small and may be fleshy, serving as a food source for animals, which aid in seed dispersal.
• Leaves: The leaves are compound, typically with leaflets that are alternately arranged. They can be leathery or glossy, helping the plant conserve water in dry environments.
• Bark and Resins: The bark of many trees in the Burseraceae family is resinous, and tapping the bark allows for the collection of aromatic resins such as frankincense and myrrh. These resins are produced in specialized cells within the bark and are exuded when the bark is wounded or scraped.

Production Process

The Burseraceae family includes several species that produce valuable resins:

• Frankincense (Boswellia spp.): Frankincense is harvested by making incisions in the bark of the tree to allow the resin to seep out. This resin is then collected and dried. Frankincense is used in religious rituals, incense, and perfumes.
• Myrrh (Commiphora spp.): Myrrh is produced similarly to frankincense, by tapping the bark to collect the resin. Myrrh has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties and is also used in perfumes and incense.
• Copal (Protium spp.): Copal is another resin produced by species in the Burseraceae family, and is used in traditional incense and varnishes.

Applications

Medicinal

The Burseraceae family is well-known for the medicinal uses of its resins:

• Frankincense (Boswellia spp.): Frankincense has been used in traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and immune-boosting properties. It is commonly used for conditions such as arthritis, respiratory disorders, and digestive issues.
• Myrrh (Commiphora spp.): Myrrh has been used in traditional medicine for its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. It is often used in oral care products for treating gum infections and in topical preparations for wound healing.
• Boswellia species: The resins of Boswellia species contain boswellic acids, which are studied for their potential to reduce inflammation and support joint health, particularly in conditions like osteoarthritis.

Culinary

While the primary use of Burseraceae resins is medicinal and aromatic, in some cultures, frankincense and myrrh have been used in small quantities as flavoring agents, especially in traditional and religious foods. However, this is not a widespread practice today.

Ornamental

Several species in the Burseraceae family are cultivated for ornamental purposes:

• Frankincense trees (Boswellia spp.) and myrrh trees (Commiphora spp.) are sometimes grown for their aromatic bark and as ornamental trees in gardens, particularly in arid climates.
• Aloe and Copal trees (Protium spp.) are also grown for their aesthetic appeal, with some species producing attractive, resinous bark and unique forms.

Environmental

The Burseraceae family plays an important role in the environment:

• Carbon Sequestration: The trees in the Burseraceae family, particularly Boswellia and Commiphora, contribute to carbon sequestration, helping to reduce carbon levels in the atmosphere. These trees are often found in dry, tropical, and subtropical regions where they help stabilize soil and prevent erosion.
• Biodiversity: Many species of Burseraceae provide habitats and food for various animal species, including birds and insects that depend on the tree's fruit and sap.

Environmental and Safety Considerations

While the plants of the Burseraceae family are generally safe for medicinal, culinary, and ornamental use, there are some considerations:

• Sustainability: The harvesting of frankincense and myrrh has led to overharvesting in some regions, threatening the sustainability of wild populations. Sustainable cultivation and harvesting practices are necessary to protect these plants.
• Allergies: Some individuals may be sensitive to the aromatic resins and oils produced by Burseraceae plants, leading to allergic reactions or skin irritation in rare cases.

INCI Functions

• Antioxidant: Protects the skin from oxidative stress.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and promotes healing.
• Antimicrobial: Helps to fight harmful microorganisms on the skin.
• Soothing: Calms irritated skin and reduces redness.

Conclusion

The Burseraceae family is a vital and versatile group of plants, known for their aromatic resins that have been used for millennia in incense, perfumes, and traditional medicine. Species like Boswellia (frankincense) and Commiphora (myrrh) are highly valued for their medicinal properties, while Protium (copal) is used in traditional incense and varnishes.