A journey through time with the world’s most treasured scent.
Long before modern perfumes and wellness trends, there was Luban — the sacred resin known today as frankincense. Harvested from the Boswellia tree, this golden gift has traveled through temples, deserts, and dynasties — leaving a trail of calm, clarity, and reverence.
At Luban Socotra, we’re proud to carry forward this ancient tradition, sharing pure, wild frankincense from the legendary island of Socotra, Yemen.
🏺 Ancient Root
Frankincense has been used for over 5,000 years — making it one of the oldest natural substances in human history. In ancient Egypt, it was used in rituals, embalming, and beauty treatments. The pharaohs believed it had divine properties that connected them to the gods.
In biblical times, it was considered a royal gift — one of the three offered to baby Jesus — a symbol of holiness, healing, and honor.
🌍 Trade Routes and Empires
By 1000 BCE, frankincense was more valuable than gold. It was carried along camel caravans through the Incense Route — a network of trade paths stretching from Southern Arabia to the Mediterranean.
Yemen, Oman, and Somalia became the heart of this trade, with Socotra standing out for its rare and potent Luban, prized by kings and healers alike.
🕊️ Sacred Smoke Across Cultures
From Hindu temples to Catholic cathedrals, frankincense smoke has filled sacred spaces around the world. Its deep, grounding scent has long been used to purify the air, mark transitions, and invite a sense of peace and connection — both spiritual and personal.
In many cultures, burning Luban is still a daily ritual — a way to begin the morning, cleanse the home, or simply be present.
🌿 A Tradition Continued
At Luban Socotra, we believe in honoring this sacred lineage by keeping it simple and pure. Our resin is harvested by hand, just as it has been for generations — no chemicals, no shortcuts, just nature’s wisdom.
By burning Luban, you’re not just enjoying a scent — you’re stepping into a timeless ritual shared by seekers, healers, and dreamers across centuries.