Frankincense is the gum resin secreted by a small shrub that grows in semi-arid regions of Arabia. An incision is made in the trunk to allow the strongly-scented and rubbery oleoresin to ooze out. We use the resin “tears” when they are harvested pure as they are exuded by the tree, or resin “chestnuts” when it falls to the ground.  Pale yellow or reddish yellow in color gives off an aromatic scent with turpentine accords. Frankincense burns quickly, giving off a strong aroma that is spiritual by nature.

In traditional medicine, it is used in fumigation to treat respiratory infections due to its high essential oil content (3 to 9%).

Its essential oil is appreciated in cosmetics for its regenerating and anti-irritation properties.

This tree, which has been grown for hundreds of years, is now found in all arid and semi-arid hot areas around the globe. Dates are one of the four fruits (along with the jujube fruit, Corinth raisins, and figs) used in remedies for chest infections. Highly nutritional, this fruit is now recommended for athletes and convalescents. Its exceptionally sugary, high-carb fruit is delicious: date honey is still made today, while medieval drinks used its stone for seasoning. Dates also contain minerals, amino acids, vitamin C and retinol.

Date extract naturally remineralizes; the oil extracted from the stone is rich in omega 6 and 9 which help soften the skin while limiting water loss.

We also use desert date oil which does not come from the same tree. This other active ingredient is rich in unsaturated fatty acids (omega 6 and 9) which have softening and emollient properties, phytosterols which play a role in the cohesion of the hydrolipid film, and antioxidant vitamin E.