⭐️ KUA on PRE-ORDER ⭐️ ETA MID-LATE DECEMBER ⭐️ WE WILL UPDATE THIS AS WE GET MORE INFORMATION  ⭐️ STOCK HAS BEEN ENABLED SO YOU CAN BENEFIT FROM THE SPECIAL ⭐️ * Please note: All orders that include a pre-order item(s) will be shipped in a SINGLE shipment after the pre-order item(s) arrives.  If you need other currently stocked items PRIOR to your pre-order item arriving, please create a separate order and these will be shipped per our shipping policy commitment to you.  Thank you for your support and understanding. This extremely RARE myrrh resin is sourced from Socotra Island (Yemen) and is highly prized for its harmonious perfume-like aroma which is notably different to all other myrrh varieties.  Due to its scarcity it can take months, if not longer, to secure this rare resin. Where possible we'll always try to offer pre-orders to ensure you don't miss out. ⭐️ Sustainably and ethically harvested at fair market rates. Love for earth with 100% compostable pouches. ⭐️ This one sells out quickly, it has become an absolute favourite both online and in-store.  To ensure integrity and transparency, we regularly update our product photos to show our 'fresh current batch' of resins.  Choose from a range of resin size to suit your personal needs. To ensure our resins are always FRESH, we don't keep excess stock. When we sell out of our current batch, we turn on our "Pre-Order" button which means you can reserve your NEW FRESH resins from our NEW FRESH HARVEST. As we move through nature's seasons, enjoy the variation in colour and resin size, depending on the amount of rainfall for the season. Tip: Kua is a particularly delicate resin and works best on a 'cool' charcoal.  At home, we tend to pop Kua onto our charcoal towards the middle of the charcoal burning time. This helps to ensure Kua's incredible nectar-honey aroma that it's known for is released without a burnt smell. You can also protect the resin from burning by using a light sprinkle of sand on your charcoal. This is a rare opportunity to experience Commiphora Kua.  Usage Tips Tip for burning Kua: Kua is a particularly delicate resin and works best on a 'cool' charcoal.  At home, we tend to pop Kua onto our charcoal towards the middle of the charcoal burning time. This helps to ensure Kua's incredible nectar-honey aroma that it's known for is released without a burnt smell. You can also protect the resin from burning by using a light sprinkle of sand on your charcoal. Tip for burning on charcoal: Once your charcoal disc is fully lit we recommend leaving it to cool for about 5-10 minutes (longer if burning Kua) or until it turns grey before placing your resin on top of the charcoal.  This helps to release the natural oil from your resin without burning it with intense heat. Remember, once the bottom of your resin starts to burn, safely flip it over with a pair of mini tongs to get the most out of your resin.  Tip for burning on a tea light burner: After your resin has been gently heating for about 45 minutes (depending on your resin size and dimensions of your burner) you'll notice your resin may start to burn.  This is when it needs to be turned over. We recommend using a pair of mini tongs to safely flip your resin over and squash it once it's been softened by the heat. Squashing the resin open will expose it to a greater surface area of heat which helps to optimise the benefits of your resin. Tip if your resin size is too big: We recommend using a hand mortar and pestle (or similar tool) to create your desired size (if required). Storage & Safety Storage: Resins are a natural product and need to be stored with care.  Store in a cool, dry place away from UV sunlight exposure.   Safety:     Here at Frankincense Pure we only recommend burning frankincense and myrrh resins. We understand there may be people who choose to chew or ingest, however, we are not medically trained and can only recommend resin to be enjoyed by being burnt safely – on either a charcoal or tealight incense burner, for aromatic purposes.    To safely burn incense, either on charcoal or in a tealight incense burner, ensure it’s out of sight and reach of children and pets and that the area is well ventilated.  Never leave your burner unattended and always ensure your burner is placed and remains on a heat proof surface when in use, away from all flammable items.  Brass, stainless steel and similar type burners remain HOT when in use, never handle when in use.

⭐️ Sustainably and ethically harvested at fair market rates. Love for earth with 100% compostable pouches. ⭐️ This rare and sacred myrrh is sourced from Socotra Island (Yemen).  Whether you're an enthusiast or starting to explore the world of myrrh, this one is special. Due to its scarcity it can take months, if not longer, to secure this rare resin. Where possible we'll always try to offer pre-orders to ensure you don't miss out. Limited quantities available. This is a rare opportunity to experience Sacred Myrrh from Socotra Island.  To ensure integrity and transparency, we regularly update our product photos to show our 'fresh current batch' of resins.  Choose from a range of resin size to suit your personal needs. To ensure our resins are always FRESH, we don't keep excess stock. When we sell out of our current batch, we turn on our "Pre-Order" button which means you can reserve your NEW FRESH resins from our NEW FRESH HARVEST. As we move through nature's seasons, enjoy the variation in colour and resin size, depending on the amount of rainfall for the season. Usage Tips Tip for burning on charcoal: Once your charcoal disc is fully lit we recommend leaving it to cool for about 5-10 minutes or until it turns grey before placing your resin on top of the charcoal.  This helps to release the natural oil from your resin without burning it with intense heat. Remember, once the bottom of your resin starts to burn, safely flip it over with a pair of mini tongs to get the most out of your resin.  Tip for burning on a tea light burner: After your resin has been gently heating for about 45 minutes (depending on your resin size and dimensions of your burner) you'll notice your resin may start to burn.  This is when it needs to be turned over. We recommend using a pair of mini tongs to safely flip your resin over and squash it once it's been softened by the heat. Squashing the resin open will expose it to a greater surface area of heat which helps to optimise the benefits of your resin. Tip if your resin size is too big: We recommend using a hand mortar and pestle (or similar tool) to create your desired size (if required). Storage & Safety Storage: Resins are a natural product and need to be stored with care.  Store in a cool, dry place away from UV sunlight exposure. Safety:   Here at Frankincense Pure we only recommend burning frankincense and myrrh resins. We understand there may be people who choose to chew or ingest, however, we are not medically trained and can only recommend resin to be enjoyed by being burnt safely – on either a charcoal or tealight incense burner, for aromatic purposes.  To safely burn incense, either on charcoal or in a tealight incense burner, ensure it’s out of sight and reach of children and pets and that the area is well ventilated.  Never leave your burner unattended and always ensure your burner is placed and remains on a heat proof surface when in use, away from all flammable items.  Brass, stainless steel and similar type burners remain HOT when in use, never handle when in use.

Aksha Myrrh is Extremely RARE and hails from Socotra Island's Commiphora Ornifolia tree. Aksha Myrrh (Commiphora Ornifolia) is very different to any other myrrh we've tried, but probably most similar to Commiphora Mukul and Commiphore Wightii with a sweet, syrupy aroma with a hint of spice. We find this scent highly nuanced and keeps you wanting to enjoy the symphony of aromatic notes. For those that have not yet tried these other Myrrh resins, one could liken Aksha Myrrh of the Commiphora Ornifolia tree to Kua Myrrh (Commiphora Kua) from Socotra Island Yemen, however the scent profile is slightly different, while very enticing in its own way. Aksha Myrrh (Commiphora Ornifolia) is very sticky, which could be one reason why it's only collected in small quantities and is reportedly used by locals mainly for medicinal purposes to aid in digestion. We love the aroma of this resin, particularly on our Ceramic Tea Light Incense Burner and Brass Adjustable Tea Light Burner because the resin melts very smoothly. On a Charcoal Incense Burner a smaller piece goes a long way and the aroma wafts through the air beautifully.

Guggul (Sweet Myrrh) has a pleasant and calming aroma that is similar to Opoponax Commiphora Erythrea and Opoponax Hadi Sweet Myrrh (Commiphora Guidotti) from Somalia. When burned, Guggul resin releases a complex and sweet fragrance, making it a popular choice. However, the scent of Guggul is distinct from the more well-known Myrrh from Somalia (Commiphora Myrrha) and Yemen, which have deeper, woodier fragrances. This versatile resin is also referred to as Commiphora Wightii, Commiphora Mukul, Indian bdellium, gugal, guggulu, guggal, gugul, mukul myrrh tree, and belongs to the flowering plant family, Burseraceae. Originating from western India, it was later introduced to southern Pakistan and throughout the Middle East.  

Commiphora Parvifolia: The Rare Socotran Myrrh Tree Hidden on the remote island of Socotra lies one of the world’s rarest myrrh-producing trees, Commiphora parvifolia. This species stands as a testament to the extraordinary biodiversity of this isolated archipelago, where evolution has crafted species found nowhere else on Earth. Belonging to the Burseraceae family, commonly known as the frankincense and myrrh family, it is part of the diverse genus Commiphora, which encompasses approximately 190 species globally. While most Commiphora species are found in tropical east Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of Asia, some, such as Commiphora leptophloeos Arn., also occur in the Americas, particularly southeastern Brazil. As an endemic species limited exclusively to Socotra Island, Commiphora parvifolia represents both botanical treasure and conservation challenge. The genus Commiphora has captivated researchers and traditional cultures for centuries, with several species like Commiphora mukul (Wight), Commiphora molmol (Nees), and Commiphora kua Berg providing valuable resins for medicinal purposes throughout tropical east Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and beyond. The genus is especially abundant in the tropics, including tropical regions of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and parts of Asia. The genus Commiphora includes around 190 species widely distributed throughout the dry areas of the Old World tropics. While many species within this genus produce commercially valuable oleo gum resin, Commiphora parvifolia remains one of the most elusive and least understood members of this ancient lineage. In Yemen, the bark of Commiphora parvifolia is traditionally used for embalming, highlighting its cultural and practical significance. The resin of Commiphora parvifolia is sustainably harvested by local Socotri harvesters on Socotra Island, ensuring the preservation of this rare species while supporting traditional practices. This resin is considered a living heritage of Socotra, making it highly sought after by collectors. Resin Properties The significance of this tree extends beyond its rarity. Its aromatic resin production, distinctive morphological features, and unique chemical composition make it a subject of intense scientific interest. India plays a significant role in the traditional use and research of Commiphora species, especially in Ayurvedic medicine. Recent research into its essential oils and secondary metabolites has revealed fascinating insights into how plants adapt to extreme environmental conditions while maintaining their capacity to produce complex compounds with potential biological activity. The chemical composition of Commiphora parvifolia has been analyzed using advanced techniques such as gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and HS-SPME-GC-MS. The HS-SPME technique is one of the preferred methods for extracting and analyzing volatile compounds from Commiphora resins. Numerous scientific articles have been published on the genus Commiphora, covering aspects such as phytochemistry, pharmacology, and traditional uses, in accordance with the latest research standards. Notably, Commiphora parvifolia acts as a uterine stimulant, adding to its diverse pharmacological profile. Desert herb undertones provide additional complexity to the aromatic signature, distinguishing Socotran resins from those produced by Commiphora species in other regions. These subtle notes likely result from the unique environmental conditions of Socotra, where the extreme aridity and limestone-rich soils influence the tree’s metabolic processes and secondary metabolite production. Commiphora parvifolia resin has a delicate, woody-balsamic aroma with notes of honeyed citrus and desert herbs, further enhancing its uniqueness. Annual yield remains extremely limited, with recent harvest seasons producing very few kilograms of resin. This scarcity reflects both the limited population size and the sustainable harvesting practices necessary to preserve the species. Each piece of resin represents a significant investment of time and careful stewardship by local collectors who understand the importance of maintaining healthy tree populations. The quality of the resin depends heavily on proper harvesting timing and post-collection processing. Hand-selection ensures only the highest quality pieces reach commercial markets, while sun-drying preserves the volatile compounds that give the resin its distinctive properties. This traditional processing maintains the integrity of the bioactive components that make the resin valuable for medicinal purposes and aromatic applications. Myrrh, including that from Commiphora parvifolia, is known to promote wound healing and regulate lipid metabolism, adding to its medicinal significance. Traditional Uses For centuries, the genus Commiphora has played a vital role in traditional medicine, spiritual practices, and daily life across tropical east Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and beyond. Several species, including Commiphora mukul (Wightii) and Commiphora molmol (Nees), produce aromatic dried resin known as myrrh, valued for diverse uses. Myrrh is important in traditional Chinese, Ayurvedic, and Arabic medicine, treating ailments such as stomach aches, colds, fevers, and malaria. Medicinally, the dried resin is prized for analgesic and antiseptic properties, used to relieve pain, inflammation, infections, and promote wound healing. It has been applied for toothache, digestive issues, skin conditions, and respiratory infections. Commiphora parvifolia is traditionally used for diarrhea and dysentery. Myrrh also treats trauma, arthritis, hyperlipidemia, chest pain, gynecological conditions, and wounds. The resin exhibits antiseptic, wound healing, emmenagogue, hypolipidemic, analgesic, antitumoral, antioxidant, antidiabetic, cardioprotective, hepatoprotective, antiulcer, and anti-inflammatory effects. Beyond healing, Commiphora resin is valued for its unique fragrance in perfumery and aromatherapy. Essential oils rich in compounds like α-pinene and sesquiterpenes contribute to its soothing and restorative qualities. Modern research supports many traditional uses, identifying secondary metabolites responsible for its medicinal effects. Compounds such as α-pinene, sesquiterpenes, and triterpenes underlie its analgesic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Studies also highlight myrrh’s anti-tumor, antioxidant, antibacterial, and neuroprotective potential. Guggulsterone, a notable compound, exhibits anti-proliferative, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial activities. Geographic Distribution and Habitat Commiphora parvifolia is a true endemic species, found only on Socotra Island in the Arabian Sea. This isolation has shaped its ecology and evolution, making it one of the most geographically restricted trees globally. It prefers gravelly soils and the arid desert conditions of Socotra. Adapted to extreme climates with annual rainfall below 150mm and summer temperatures above 40°C, the tree has specialized features for water conservation and heat tolerance. It grows in dry, desert, or open bushland habitats, mainly in Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. Within Socotra’s unique ecosystem, Commiphora parvifolia serves as a key structural plant and resource for local fauna. Specimens are found up to 1,000 meters elevation, especially in the Homhil escarpment area with limestone soils. Population data are scarce, with only 13 observations on platforms like iNaturalist, reflecting either rarity or limited study. Threats include overgrazing, climate change, and vulnerability due to its restricted range. This species’ unique characteristics, shaped by millions of years of isolated evolution, distinguish it from other Commiphora species and make it important for studying plant adaptation in island environments. Botanical Characteristics The physical appearance of Commiphora parvifolia immediately sets it apart from its relatives within the genus Commiphora. Mature specimens can reach impressive heights of 12-20 meters, with stem diameters ranging from 15-25 centimeters, making them substantial trees by Socotran standards. This size distinguishes them from many other Commiphora species, which often remain shrubby in similar arid environments. The leaf structure of Commiphora parvifolia bears interesting similarities to Boswellia socotrana, another endemic resin-producing tree of Socotra, yet maintains distinct characteristics. The leaves are notably shorter with fewer leaflets compared to related species, reflecting the “parvifolia” epithet meaning “small leaves.” This morphological adaptation likely represents an evolutionary response to the island’s arid climate, where reduced leaf surface area helps minimize water loss through transpiration. The distinctive tree habit of Commiphora parvifolia allows experienced botanists to identify it from considerable distances. The branching pattern, overall silhouette, and growth form create a unique profile that differentiates it from other Commiphora species found elsewhere. Field researchers note that the bark characteristics include the typical Commiphora feature of exfoliating in thin sheets, often revealing photosynthetic tissue underneath that can continue producing energy even when the tree is leafless during severe drought periods. Resin secretion points occur naturally along the bark, where the tree produces its valuable aromatic compounds. These secretions serve multiple functions, including protection against pests and healing of mechanical damage to the bark. The resin’s antimicrobial properties, demonstrated through traditional uses and modern research, suggest these compounds evolved as chemical defenses against the diverse microorganisms present in Socotra’s unique environment. Seasonal growth patterns in Commiphora parvifolia reflect the extreme variability of Socotra’s climate. During the brief wet season, the tree maximizes growth and leaf production. However, during the prolonged dry periods that characterize most of the year, the species enters dormancy, shedding leaves and relying on stored water and nutrients. These adaptation features showcase millions of years of evolution fine-tuning survival strategies for one of Earth’s most challenging environments. Chemical Composition and Volatile Compounds Recent scientific investigations utilizing HS-SPME-GC/MS analysis have revealed fascinating insights into the chemical composition of Commiphora parvifolia specimens collected from Socotra. These advanced analytical techniques have identified a complex profile of volatile compounds that contribute to the species’ distinctive aromatic properties and potential medicinal value. The volatile oil profile shows a predominance of monoterpenes, a class of compounds common throughout the genus Commiphora but with species-specific variations. Research has identified significant concentrations of limonene, a compound known for its citrusy aroma and various biological activities. The presence of β-caryophyllene and humulene, both sesquiterpene compounds, adds complexity to the chemical signature and may contribute to the resin’s traditional uses for treating various ailments. In addition to resin, phytochemical studies have also analyzed compounds derived from the stems of Commiphora parvifolia to evaluate their bioactive potential. Compared to other Commiphora species like Commiphora molmol (Nees) or Commiphora mukul (Wight), the volatile composition of Commiphora parvifolia shows both similarities and unique characteristics. While α-pinene appears in many Commiphora species, the specific ratios and presence of additional components create a distinct chemical fingerprint. These differences may be attributed to the isolated evolution on Socotra, where the absence of certain environmental pressures and the presence of others has shaped the tree’s metabolic pathways. Environmental factors significantly influence the chemical composition of the essential oils. Altitude and microclimatic conditions across Socotra’s varied landscape can lead to variations in secondary metabolites production. Trees growing at higher elevations may produce different compound ratios compared to those in coastal areas, reflecting adaptation to specific environmental stresses. The methods used for extraction and analysis follow established protocols for studying plant essential oils. Researchers have utilized steam distillation and other techniques to isolate the volatile components, followed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry for identification and quantification of individual compounds. Linear Retention Indices (LRIs) were calculated based on GC-MS measurements to standardize compound identification and allow comparison with literature values. These scientific approaches ensure reliable data for understanding the tree’s chemical properties and potential applications. Cultivation and Growing Requirements Successfully cultivating Commiphora parvifolia (Engl.) outside its native Socotra habitat requires careful attention to its specialized environmental needs. The species demands full sun exposure throughout the day, reflecting its adaptation to the intense solar radiation of its desert homeland. Indoor cultivation presents unique challenges, as the plants require positioning within three feet of south-facing windows to receive adequate light intensity. Commiphora parvifolia prefers to grow in gravely soil and requires full sun, mirroring the conditions of its natural habitat. Commiphora parvifolia can be grown outdoors in USDA Hardiness Zones 9a-11b. The watering schedule proves critical for healthy growth and survival. During active growing periods, typically corresponding to the warmer months, plants should receive water every nine days. This seemingly sparse schedule actually mimics the natural rainfall patterns of Socotra, where precipitation occurs in brief, intense episodes followed by extended dry periods. Overwatering represents one of the most common causes of cultivation failure, as the species has evolved sophisticated water storage mechanisms that become overwhelmed by excessive moisture. Summer water requirements differ significantly from winter care protocols. While the growing season demands regular but measured irrigation, winter brings the need for complete dormancy. During the coldest months, Commiphora parvifolia should receive no water whatsoever, allowing the plant to enter its natural resting phase. This dormancy period proves essential for proper flowering and resin production in mature specimens. Indoor cultivation success depends heavily on understanding the species’ light requirements. Insufficient illumination quickly leads to leaf drop and overall decline, as the plants cannot photosynthesize effectively in low-light conditions. Growers often supplement natural light with full-spectrum grow lights to maintain healthy specimens, particularly in higher latitudes where winter daylight hours become severely limited. Commiphora parvifolia requires ample sunlight to thrive and may drop leaves without it, emphasizing the importance of replicating its natural light conditions. Common cultivation issues include leaf drop from both insufficient light and overwatering. The species exhibits remarkable sensitivity to these stressors, often responding within days to improper care. Successful cultivators learn to recognize the subtle signs of stress and adjust their care accordingly, understanding that the tree’s natural habitat provides harsh but consistent conditions that must be replicated as closely as possible. The adaptation of Commiphora parvifolia to container cultivation requires specialized soil mixtures that provide excellent drainage while retaining minimal moisture. Commercial cactus mixes often serve as suitable base materials, though many growers prefer to create custom blends incorporating pumice, coarse sand, and minimal organic matter to better replicate the gravelly soils of Socotra. Conservation Status and Research Current documentation of Commiphora parvifolia populations relies heavily on citizen science platforms, with iNaturalist recording only 13 observations to date. This limited dataset highlights both the species’ rarity and the need for more comprehensive field surveys to accurately assess population size and distribution patterns across Socotra. The paucity of observations may reflect either genuine scarcity or insufficient scientific attention to this endemic species. Research efforts focusing on volatile compound analysis represent the most significant recent advances in understanding Commiphora parvifolia. Studies utilizing advanced analytical methods have identified the complex chemical composition of the species’ essential oils, providing insights into both taxonomic relationships and potential applications. These investigations contribute to the broader understanding of how isolated evolution has shaped the unique characteristics of Socotran flora. Conservation concerns center on the species’ extremely limited distribution and increasing pressures from human activities on Socotra. Overgrazing by introduced livestock poses a significant threat to regeneration, as young seedlings face intense browsing pressure that can prevent successful establishment. Climate change adds another layer of uncertainty, as shifting rainfall patterns and increasing temperatures may push the species beyond its adaptive limits. The need for sustainable cultivation programs outside the native habitat has become increasingly apparent as wild populations face mounting pressures. Botanical gardens, research institutions, and private collectors worldwide are working to establish ex-situ conservation populations that could serve as genetic reservoirs for the species. These efforts require international cooperation and sharing of expertise to overcome the challenges of cultivating such a specialized species. Future research directions encompass both phytochemical and pharmacological studies aimed at better understanding the species’ potential applications and biological significance. Further pharmacology studies are needed to evaluate the therapeutic potential and mechanisms of action of Commiphora parvifolia's bioactive compounds. Investigations into the bioactive compounds present in the resin may reveal novel therapeutic properties that could justify conservation investments while providing sustainable economic incentives for protection efforts. While the resin is traditionally used for medicinal purposes, its safety for humans should be evaluated through clinical studies to ensure there are no adverse effects. The collaboration between international researchers and local Socotran communities represents a crucial component of effective conservation strategies. Local knowledge about traditional harvesting practices, ecological relationships, and historical population changes provides invaluable context for scientific studies and conservation planning. These partnerships also ensure that conservation benefits directly support the communities most closely connected to the species. Habitat protection efforts on Socotra require careful balance between conservation goals and the legitimate needs of local communities. Sustainable tourism, controlled grazing, and habitat restoration projects offer potential pathways for protecting Commiphora parvifolia while supporting economic development on the island. The unique biodiversity of Socotra, including endemic species like Commiphora parvifolia, represents a global heritage that justifies international conservation investment. Long-term monitoring programs are essential for tracking population trends and assessing the effectiveness of conservation interventions. Regular surveys, genetic sampling, and demographic studies will provide the data necessary to adapt management strategies as conditions change. Long-term studies should assess the normal physiological and ecological parameters of Commiphora parvifolia populations to detect changes over time. These programs require sustained funding and institutional commitment over decades to achieve meaningful conservation outcomes. The broader significance of Commiphora parvifolia extends beyond its intrinsic value as a unique species. As a representative of Socotra’s extraordinary endemic flora, it serves as an indicator of ecosystem health and a symbol of what stands to be lost without effective conservation action. The species embodies millions of years of evolutionary history and adaptation that, once lost, cannot be recreated.