Frankincense is one of the oldest traded materials in the world. Shallaki belongs to that family.
The genus
Boswellia is the frankincense genus, in the family Burseraceae. The frankincense of the incense trade, olibanum, comes chiefly from other Boswellia species; the Ayurvedic Shallaki is Boswellia serrata, which is why it is called Indian frankincense.
Relatives, not substitutes
A shared genus is not equivalence, the same caution that applies to the Terminalia genus. Species differ, and a label that says only frankincense has not said which.
Why the confusion persists
Because the incense trade and the Ayurvedic materia medica met the same genus from different directions and kept their own names for it: olibanum on one side, Shallaki and Salai guggul on the other.
On the label
Shallaki Capsules name Boswellia serrata specifically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Shallaki frankincense?
It is Indian frankincense, Boswellia serrata, a relative of the incense frankincense.
What is olibanum?
The frankincense of the incense trade, chiefly from other Boswellia species.
Are they interchangeable?
No. Different species.
This article is for educational purposes and describes the classical Ayurvedic record. The products mentioned are food supplements, not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Take them under the guidance of a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner.
