Olibanum smells like stepping into an ancient temple filled with billowing smoke. Imagine warm, slightly woody resin with bright citrus undertones and a peppery spice that catches in the back of your throat. There's an incense-like quality—not acrid, but honeyed and almost creamy—reminiscent of frankincense burning over hot coals. It's simultaneously dry and buttery, with a subtle sweetness that unfolds like amber-coloured light filtering through stained glass.
Olibanum is frankincense resin harvested from Boswellia trees native to Somalia, Oman, and Yemen. Collectors make shallow cuts in the bark, allowing the tree to weep precious resin tears that dry into pale, crystalline nuggets over several weeks. This ancient trade dominated the Silk Road for millennia. The resin is either used directly (burned as incense) or processed into essential oil through steam distillation. Modern perfumery also employs synthetic molecules like iso E super to capture its woody, slightly animalic character.
Olibanum anchors compositions as a warm, sophisticated base note. Perfumers layer it to add spiritual depth, mystique, and longevity—it's the note that makes a fragrance feel timeless and ceremonial. It bridges florals and spices, grounding brighter top notes whilst lending an almost meditative, contemplative quality.
Time-tested combinations
Contemporary compositions
Surprising harmonies