Excessively tapped mature carterii tree, that has lost most of its bark
Moxor harvesters
Initially, 2Mages offers Maydi from three harvesters in different locations in Sanaag:
- Said Westi in Siraadley
- Abdillahi Said Awad in Madar Mooge
- Ahmed Ali Isse in Hasasha
Moxor (frankincense carterii)
Moxor grows only in northern Somalia but is identical to the frankincense sacra grown in Oman and Yemen. It is the archetypal frankincense burnt in churches and other temples. It is appreciated for its exquisite perfume and healing power.
The resin, obtained by tapping (cutting) trees, consists of 50-60% resins, 25-35% gums, and 5-15% volatile oils. The latter are extracted by steam or hydro distillation, producing 100% organic essential oil. The remaining residue after distillation (about 95% of the original mass) contains boswellic acids and incensole, both of which are being intensely researched in pharmacological studies, as they seem to have a wide range of applications: anti-cancer, anti-arthritis, immunomodulatory, curing bowel diseases and respiratory afflictions among other benefits, with no known negative side effects.
2Mages will soon offer boswellic acid capsules produced by our distillery according to its own procedure, using the residue otherwise foolishly discarded by many other essential oil producers.
The best moxor in Somaliland is produced in the Al Madow mountains, a coastal range peaking at 2450 meters (Mount Shimbiris). Although the trees are relatively abundant in Northern Somalia, overtapping, climate change (which triggers forest fires, floods and landslides), pests such as the longhorn beetle and the lack of regeneration of forests (because grazing animals eat the saplings) is significantly reducing the native population of trees, causing concern among harvesting communities.
Moxor Essential Oil
Moxor essential oil presents a fresh, clean opening with pine and citrus, a resinous, slightly sweet heart and a woody, balsamic lingering base. It is at once uplifting and centering, spiritual and contemplative, evoking millennia of sacred use.
Besides being a cherished perfume ingredient (used for example in Chanel No 5), this essential oil is used for aromatherapy, meditation and healing. Studies demonstrate its antimicrobial activity against various pathogens – making it an effective anti-inflammatory agent – potential anxiolytic (anxiety-reducing) effects and respiratory support, clearing the airways. Since ancient times, frankincense oil has also been considered a rejuvenating agent for the skin. Strictly speaking, however, the term ‘rejuvenating’ is a bit misleading. Frankincense essential oil tightens and tones the skin and maintains it healthy.
Pure moxor oil ranges from colorless to pale golden yellow. It flows freely at room temperature. It is less viscous than myrrh oil but slightly more so than maydi (frankincense frereana).
