Frankincense Hydrosol
Overview
The softly resinous water co-produced when frankincense resin is steam-distilled.
Varieties we use
- Boswellia Serrata
- Boswellia Serrata Water
- Boswellia Frereana
- Boswellia Frereana Water
What it is
Frankincense Hydrosol is the water collected when frankincense resin is steam-distilled. It carries a much gentler version of frankincense’s warm, resinous character.
Where it comes from and how it’s made
Boswellia trees grow in arid regions of the Horn of Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and India. The water that condenses alongside the essential oil during distillation is collected separately as the hydrosol.
What it does in a formulation
As a light, fragrant water, Frankincense Hydrosol is used in place of some or all of the water in a formula, bringing a soft, resinous note into the finished product.
Why Lovebee uses it
We like this one for formulas that want a whisper of frankincense’s grounding character without the intensity of the essential oil — a gentler way to carry that same ancient warmth.
Good to know
- Vegan and entirely plant-derived.
Common questions
- What does Frankincense Hydrosol smell like?
A soft, warm, resinous note — gentler than the essential oil.
- Is Frankincense Hydrosol the same as Frankincense Essential Oil?
No. The hydrosol is the water collected during distillation and is much more dilute than the essential oil.
- Is Frankincense Hydrosol vegan?
Yes — it’s a plant-derived ingredient with no animal inputs.