Frankincense and Myrrh, the essences of the season, were the most prized substances in the ancient world. They were as valuable as gold and were the Three Wise Men’s gifts for a babe lying in a manger. It’s been said: gold was for kingship, frankincense symbolizes holiness and myrrh represents suffering.

The trees grow in an extended geographical area in southern Arabia. Incisions were carved in the tree trunks. And in response to these incisions they produce a thick sap for protection. The sap, "thick gum",was collected and transported by camels along the famous; dangerous, 2400 miles long Frankincense Trail, to the coast.

The different gum grades were identified by smell; appearance, knowing were the trees were harvested. Much secrecy surrounded the exact location were the trees grew due to their high commercial value.

Ancient methods were used to extract small amounts of essence. Nowadays, the gums are steam distilled which can determine or destroy the value of the oil. The most reliable indicator of testing is the gas chromatography. Trained technicians should exam the entire natural chemical fingerprint of the oil to determine its potency -- more important its purity.

The use of essences fell of popularity despite its comprehensive use by ancient civilizations. Research indicates frankincense and myrrh are high in compounds know as sesquiterpenes. Those natural compounds stimulate the limbic system of the brain, your ‘center of emotions'.

Ancient civilizations knew more than we give them credit for. The Three Wise Men must have had good reasons to offer those precious essences and gold for a babe lying in a manger.

“Until the day break, and the shadows flee away,
I will get me to the mountain of myrrh,
and to the hill of frankincense."   
Song of Solomon 4:6