Welcome to
Amora Botaniques
Pure. Potent. Proven.We specialise in high-concentration frankincense resin extracts, ethically sourced and delivered from the UK. Whether you're a skincare formulator looking for a serious active ingredient, or simply someone who wants the genuine power of these ancient resins on your skin - you're in the right place.Boswellic acids are the key active compounds that make frankincense one of nature’s most extraordinary botanicals. They do not survive steam distillation and are absent from essential oils - which is why we do things differently.Our ethanol extraction process captures what other methods leave behind, delivering the full active profile of each resin in a pure, potent powder.The active compounds we extract include AKBA (Acetyl-11-keto-β-boswellic acid) that have been studied for their ability to inhibit 5-LOX (5-lipoxygenase), an enzyme that triggers the production of leukotrienes as part of the body's inflammatory response. When this pathway becomes overactive, it contributes to chronic skin inflammation, accelerated ageing, arthritic joint pain, and a range of inflammatory conditions throughout the body. Research into boswellic acids spans both topical and internal applications. Applied directly to the skin in a face oil, body oil, or balm, these compounds work at the site of inflammation rather than being processed through the digestive system - making topical application a logical and direct delivery method. This is the chemistry behind frankincense as a serious therapeutic botanical.
Why our extract is different
The frankincense world has a secret that most brands don't want you to know - and it's costing you results.When frankincense resin is steam distilled into an essential oil, or simply infused into a carrier oil at home, you capture the terpenes and the scent. What you do NOT capture is boswellic acids - the active therapeutic compounds responsible for anti-inflammatory action, collagen protection, and deep skin regeneration. Boswellic acids are non-volatile. They do not survive steam distillation. They are left behind in the resin, and a carrier oil alone is simply not strong enough to extract them fully.
This is confirmed by the Tisserand Institute and multiple peer-reviewed studies: there is no reliable report of boswellic acids in any steam-distilled frankincense essential oil. None. If you infuse resin in a carrier oil at home? You are getting a beautifully scented oil with terpenes. You are not getting boswellic acids in any meaningful amount.The most effective way to extract boswellic acids for cosmetic use is through alcohol (ethanol) extraction - the gold standard solvent for botanical extraction, proven safe, clean, and highly efficient at drawing out the full range of active resin compounds.That's exactly what we do. Our ethanol extraction process draws out the full spectrum of active compounds from each resin - which are then concentrated, the ethanol fully evaporated, and the remaining extract dried and ground twice into a fine, potent powder. No mess. No waste. Just the complete active profile of the resin, in a form your skin can actually use.Frankincense resin is made up of three components. The water-soluble gum - about 30% - is a polysaccharide with no meaningful therapeutic benefit for the skin. The essential oil - about 5-10% - contains the aromatic terpenes responsible for frankincense's distinctive scent. And the resin fraction - the remaining 55-60% - is where the real power lives: the complete family of boswellic acids, including the heavily researched AKBA, KBA, α-boswellic acid, β-boswellic acid, and more, plus other resin acids.Steam distillation captures only the essential oil fraction - the aromatic terpenes. The boswellic acids are left behind entirely. Oil infusion does transfer a small amount of boswellic acids, but only partially and inefficiently - a significant proportion remain locked in the undissolved resin and are simply lost. Ethanol extraction captures everything except the water-soluble gum: the full boswellic acid family, the resin acids, and the aromatic terpene compounds.This is what "full spectrum" genuinely means - and it's why our powder delivers what no essential oil or home oil infusion can.Extraordinary value in every jar
A single 10g jar of Amora Botaniques resin extract powder contains enough concentrated botanical power to create between 5 and 10 full bottles of face oil - depending on your chosen usage rate. This is not a novelty ingredient. This is a serious active, supplied in the concentration it deserves.Each jar is supplied in a premium UV-protective violet glass jar, chosen specifically to shield the extract from light degradation and preserve its potency for up to five years. Sealed, stored correctly, and handled with a clean dry spoon, your extract remains as potent on the last use as the first.
How it is made
Most people who want to benefit from frankincense's active compounds try to infuse the raw resin into a carrier oil at home. We understand the appeal - but this method leaves the majority of boswellic acids behind, stuck in the undissolved resin.We do it differently.
Our process begins with premium-grade whole resin, which is frozen and then ground into a fine powder, then submerged in high-grade 96% ethanol (non-denatured) - the safest and most effective solvent for cosmetic extraction of boswellic acids. Using an advanced extraction process, the ethanol draws out the complete spectrum of active compounds from the resin with exceptional efficiency. Every stage is carefully controlled to ensure maximum potency and concentration.Once the extraction is complete, we triple filter with whatman lab grade filters to ensure exceptional clarity. The ethanol is then carefully and fully evaporated under controlled conditions - leaving behind nothing but a concentrated resin extract containing the boswellic acids, resin acids, and bioactive compounds. As the final traces of ethanol dissipate, a pure glass-like resin forms, often referred to as 'shatter'. This is then ground into a fine powder for ease of use.The result: a clean, potent, mess-free powder that disperses easily into any oil-based formulation. No sticky resin. No wasted product. Just pure, concentrated botanical power.
Choose your resin -
Which one is right for you?
Not all frankincense is the same. Different species of Boswellia tree produce resin with different boswellic acid profiles, which affects both their potency and their benefits for your skin. Boswellia carterii is considered the premium choice for skincare, containing the highest levels of both total boswellic acids and AKBA (acetyl-11-keto-boswellic acid) - the single most potent and bioactive boswellic acid compound. Boswellia serrata, known as Indian frankincense, has a slightly different profile but is one of the most widely researched species and is particularly valued for its anti-inflammatory properties. If you're new to boswellic acid extracts, carterii is a wonderful place to start - or explore our full range to find the variety that's right for your formulation.
Royal Hojari - Luxury Skin Perfector
Boswellia Sacra | Origin: Dhofar Mountains, Oman
This is as rare as frankincense gets. Royal Hojari is harvested from the ancient Boswellia sacra trees of Oman's Dhofar region, trees so prized they are protected by the Omani government. Considered the finest frankincense in the world by international aromatic traders, this is the resin historically reserved for royalty.Boswellia sacra carries an exceptionally high boswellic acid content, and Royal Hojari is its purest, most sought after expression. Ethanol-extracted Boswellia sacra resin has been the subject of scientific research confirming its antimicrobial, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity, making it one of the most powerful botanical actives available to the home formulator.In skincare, Royal Hojari is exceptional. Boswellic acids are well documented for their ability to support skin firmness and elasticity, visibly reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, and promote a clearer, more even complexion. Its antimicrobial and purifying properties make it highly effective for blemish-prone and congested skin, while its exceptional alpha-pinene content delivers powerful skin-soothing benefits for sensitive and reactive skin types. Regular use supports visibly renewed, radiant and more youthful looking skin.Best for: Anti-ageing, firmness and elasticity, fine lines and wrinkles, blemish-prone skin, sensitive and reactive skin, luxury skincare formulations.
Yellow Hojari - The Golden Glow
Boswellia Sacra | Origin: Dhofar Mountains, Oman
Sourced from the same revered Boswellia sacra trees of Oman's Dhofar region as its Royal counterpart, Yellow Hojari shares the same extraordinary species and the same exceptional boswellic acid profile - at a more accessible price point. The golden tears of Yellow Hojari are a step down in grade only, not in potency.Its strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial action make it a brilliant all-rounder. Yellow Hojari contributes to a brighter, more even-looking complexion and performs beautifully in everyday face oils and serums, where you want the full benefit of Omani frankincense without the premium cost of the Royal Hojari. For formulators who want Boswellia sacra in every batch, this is your workhorse.Best for: Skin clarity, enhancing natural glow, supporting skin balance, everyday anti-ageing, antibacterial skincare, and daily face oils and serums.
Carterii - The Skin Renewer
Boswellia Carterii | Origin: Somalia
The premium choice for boswellic acid content in skincare. Boswellia carterii contains the highest levels of both total boswellic acids and AKBA (acetyl-11-keto-boswellic acid) of all the species we carry - making it the most concentrated and potent extract for skin applications. It is also distinguished by its higher content of incensole and incensole acetate - compounds associated with neuroprotective effects including mood support and anxiety reduction - alongside a rich monoterpene profile that drives its remarkable skin-renewing action.Where carterii truly stands apart is collagen stimulation and cell turnover. It actively supports the skin's renewal cycle, promoting plumper, firmer, more youthful-looking skin over time. It is your go-to for scarring, bruising, and damaged or compromised skin - working to repair and restore at a cellular level, making it a favourite for post-procedure skincare, stretch marks, and acne scarring. Its mood-supporting compounds also make it an inspired addition to body oils used during massage.Best for: Collagen support, firming, scarring, bruising, stretch marks, damaged skin, pigmentation, post-procedure recovery, mood-supporting body oils and balms.
Serrata - The Pain & Inflammation Specialist
Boswellia Serrata | Origin: India
One of the most extensively clinically researched botanicals in natural medicine. While serrata contains lower levels of AKBA than carterii, it has the most substantial body of clinical evidence behind it of all the Boswellia species - particularly for anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving applications. Its primary action comes from inhibiting the 5-LOX enzyme, reducing cytokines, prostaglandins, and the inflammatory mediators that drive chronic pain and skin inflammation alike.If you are formulating for pain relief, inflammation, or joint support - serrata is your resin. For skincare, it is exceptional in balms and salves targeting joint pain, muscle soreness, and deeply inflamed skin. Its strong anti-inflammatory profile also makes it highly effective for inflammatory acne, calming swelling and redness around breakouts while supporting skin healing.Best for: Pain relief balms, joint and muscle salves, arthritic and inflamed joints, inflammatory acne, body oils for chronic pain areas.âš Note: Avoid during pregnancy. Consult your doctor before use if taking anticoagulant medication such as warfarin.
How to use
How to Use Your Botanical Extract PowderOur premium extracts are designed to integrate seamlessly into oil-based formulations. They dissolve cleanly into carrier oils, lotions, balms, body butters, and salves.Suggested Usage Rates:
Face Oils: 1–3%
Body & Joint Care: 3–5% (up to 10% for a potent anti-inflammatory infusion using serrata extract)Preparation & Oil Selection
To ensure a clear, smooth finish, your oil must be heated within a temperature range of 70–75°C.
This requires a stable carrier oil that can tolerate these temperatures.Suitable oils include:
Jojoba, Sweet Almond Oil, Olive Oil, Avocado Oil, Sunflower Oil (preferably high oleic), Rice Bran Oil, Argan Oil, Macadamia Oil, and Apricot Kernel Oil.Oils that are not suitable for heating to this temperature range include:
Rosehip Oil, Evening Primrose Oil, Borage Oil, Flaxseed (Linseed) Oil, and Hemp Seed Oil. These should only be added once the mixture has cooled below 40°C.About the Extract
Boswellic acids remain stable within this temperature range and will not degrade during heating.
Aromatic compounds (terpenes), which give the extract its scent, are more heat-sensitive. Some loss may occur, however a noticeable natural aroma will remain in the final oil.Depending on the extract used, this may present as:
- A fresh citrus profile (lemon, lime, or soft orange notes)
- A deeper balsamic, earthy scent (common with serrata)What You’ll Need- Saucepan and heat-safe glass bowl (bain-marie / double boiler)
- Thermometer
- Glass bottle or dropper bottle for storage
- Spatula, spoon, or milk frother (for larger batches)
- Your chosen carrier oil
- An antioxidant (required)An antioxidant is necessary to slow oxidation and extend the shelf life of your oil.Hygiene & PreservationEnsure all tools, containers, and bottles are properly sanitised before use.Preservatives are not required for oil-only products, as bacteria and mould require water to grow. Water-based formulations do require a suitable preservative.Facial Oil or Body Oil Preparation- Using a bain-marie (double boiler), fill your saucepan so the water level sits slightly above the level of the oil in your glass bowl.
- Heat the oil to approximately 40–50°C
- Add your extract slowly and gradually while stirring
- Continue heating to 70°C, stirring until the extract has dissolved
If needed, increase to 75°C to achieve a fully clear finish
- Once dissolved, remove from heat
- Allow to cool below 40°C
- Add any heat-sensitive ingredients (essential oils, delicate oils, antioxidant required at lower temperatures)
- Allow to cool further before pouring into your bottle.How to UseApply a few drops to clean skin. If your skin feels dry, apply a light moisturiser first. This provides hydration, while the oil helps to seal it in.Oils provide nourishment and support the skin barrier, but they do not provide hydration on their own.Balm Preparation - For targeted body and joint support.- Combine your wax (Beeswax or Candelilla) and butters in a bain-marie (double boiler).
- Heat until fully melted within a temperature range of 70–75°C.
- In a separate bain-marie, heat your carrier oil to approximately 40–50°C.
- Add your extract gradually while stirring.
- Continue heating to 70°C, stirring until fully dissolved.
If needed, increase to 75°C to achieve a fully clear finish.
- Once both phases are within the same temperature range (70–75°C), pour the oil phase into the wax phase. Stir until fully combined.
- Allow the mixture to cool to 45–50°C.
- Add your heat-sensitive oils, Essential oils, Vitamin E (antioxidant required)
- Stir thoroughly while the balm is still fluid enough to pour. Pour into jars while still runny. Leave undisturbed until fully set.How to UseApply a small amount to the desired area and massage gently into the skin until absorbed.A warming or soothing sensation may be noticed shortly after application, depending on the blend used.For best results, apply 1–2 times daily to the same area. Consistent use over time supports the full benefits of the extract.Storage & Quality CareYour extract is a highly concentrated botanical resin, sensitive to light, heat, and moisture.
Keep Sealed: Always ensure the lid is screwed on tightly after use. Exposure to air can cause the powder to absorb moisture and clump.
Optimal Environment: Store your jar in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. While our UV-protective glass jars offer superior defence against light degradation, keeping them in a cupboard or drawer is ideal.
Temperature Control: Avoid storing near heat sources (like radiators or windowsills). If you choose to store your bulk stock in the fridge, allow the jar to reach room temperature before opening to prevent internal condensation.
Clean Handling: Only use a clean, dry spoon or spatula to remove the powder. Even a single drop of water introduced into the jar can spoil the concentrate.
References
Tisserand, R. (2023). Does Frankincense Oil Contain Boswellic Acid? Tisserand Institute. https://tisserandinstitute.org/frankincense-boswellic-acid/Almeida-da-Silva CLC, Sivakumar N, Asadi H, Chang-Chien A, Qoronfleh MW, Ojcius DM, Essa MM. Effects of Frankincense Compounds on Infection, Inflammation, and Oral Health. Molecules. 2022 Jun 29;27(13):4174. doi: 10.3390/molecules27134174. PMID: 35807419; PMCID: PMC9268443.Tsai YC, Chang HH, Chou SC, Chu TW, Hsu YJ, Hsiao CY, Lo YH, Wu NL, Chang DC, Hung CF. Evaluation of the Anti-Atopic Dermatitis Effects of α-Boswellic Acid on Tnf-α/Ifn-γ-Stimulated HaCat Cells and DNCB-Induced BALB/c Mice. Int J Mol Sci. 2022 Aug 30;23(17):9863. doi: 10.3390/ijms23179863. PMID: 36077254; PMCID: PMC9456567.Di Stefano V, Schillaci D, Cusimano MG, Rishan M, Rashan L. In Vitro Antimicrobial Activity of Frankincense Oils from Boswellia sacra Grown in Different Locations of the Dhofar Region (Oman). Antibiotics (Basel). 2020 Apr 20;9(4):195. doi: 10.3390/antibiotics9040195. PMID: 32325952; PMCID: PMC7235874.Al-Kharousi ZS, Mothershaw AS, Nzeako B. Antimicrobial Activity of Frankincense (Boswellia sacra) Oil and Smoke against Pathogenic and Airborne Microbes. Foods. 2023 Sep 15;12(18):3442. doi: 10.3390/foods12183442. PMID: 37761150; PMCID: PMC10527873.Trivedi VL, Soni R, Dhyani P, Sati P, Tejada S, Sureda A, Setzer WN, Faizal Abdull Razis A, Modu B, Butnariu M, Sharifi-Rad J. Anti-cancer properties of boswellic acids: mechanism of action as anti-cancerous agent. Front Pharmacol. 2023 Aug 3;14:1187181. doi: 10.3389/fphar.2023.1187181. PMID: 37601048; PMCID: PMC10434769.Mehta, Meenu & Satija, Saurabh & Nanda, Arun & Garg, Munish. (2014). Nanotechnologies for Boswellic Acids. American Journal of Drug Discovery and Development. 4. 1-11. 10.3923/ajdd.2014.1.11.Hwa Seung Han, Song Yi Koo, Ki Young Choi, Emerging nanoformulation strategies for phytocompounds and applications from drug delivery to phototherapy to imaging, Bioactive Materials, Volume 14, 2022, Pages 182-205,Abdirisak Abdulkadir Ibrahim, Local knowledge and attitudes of frankincense communities in northeastern Somalia, Global Ecology and Conservation, Volume 48, 2023, e02748, ISSN 2351-9894, https://doi.org/10.1016/j.gecco.2023.e02748.Pedretti A, Capezzera R, Zane C, Facchinetti E, Calzavara-Pinton P. Effects of topical boswellic acid on photo and age-damaged skin: clinical, biophysical, and echographic evaluations in a double-blind, randomized, split-face study. Planta Med. 2010 Apr;76(6):555-60. doi: 10.1055/s-0029-1240581. Epub 2009 Nov 16. PMID: 19918712.Kotb EA, El-Shiekh RA, Abd-Elsalam WH, El Sayed NSED, El Tanbouly N, El Senousy AS. Protective potential of frankincense essential oil and its loaded solid lipid nanoparticles against UVB-induced photodamage in rats via MAPK and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways; A promising anti-aging therapy. PLoS One. 2023 Dec 21;18(12):e0294067. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0294067. PMID: 38127865; PMCID: PMC10735031.Xiufang Yan MS, Xiaoyu Ma PhD, Daoxin Dai PhD, Xiaojuan Yan PhD, Xingyan Han BS, Xijun Bao MS, Qiufang Xie BS (2023) Potent pigmentation inhibitory activity of incensole-enriched frankincense volatile oil-identification, efficacy and mechanism, Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, Volume23, Issue1, January 2024, Pages 244-255Nischang Vivien , Witt Finja M. , Börner Friedemann , Gomez Mario , Jordan Paul M. , Werz Oliver (2023), Frankincense preparation promotes formation of inflammation-resolving lipid mediators by manipulating lipoxygenases in human innate immune cells,Frontiers in Pharmacology, Volume 14 - 2023, https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2023.1332628, DOI=10.3389/fphar.2023.1332628, ISSN=1663-9812Al-Harrasi A, Rehman NU, Khan AL, Al-Broumi M, Al-Amri I, Hussain J, Hussain H, Csuk R. Chemical, molecular and structural studies of Boswellia species: β-Boswellic Aldehyde and 3-epi-11β-Dihydroxy BA as precursors in biosynthesis of boswellic acids. PLoS One. 2018 Jun 18;13(6):e0198666. doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0198666. PMID: 29912889; PMCID: PMC6005567.Venkatesan, K., Sivadasan, D., Abderrahmen Al Weslati, M., Gayasuddin Mouid, M., Goyal, M., Bansal, M., Salama, M. E.-D. M., Azizullah Ghori, S., & Ahmad, F. (2025). Protective Effects of Frankincense Oil on Wound Healing: Downregulating Caspase-3 Expression to Facilitate the Transition from the Inflammatory to Proliferative Phase. Pharmaceuticals, 18(3), 407. https://doi.org/10.3390/ph18030407
Safety Information - Please Read
Always perform a patch test before use.
For external use only. Do not consume.
Keep out of reach of children. Not recommended for use on children.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Due to insufficient safety data, all resin extracts should be avoided during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider before use.
Anticoagulant medications: Boswellia serrata may interact with blood thinning medications including warfarin. If you are taking any anticoagulant medication, consult your doctor or pharmacist before use.
If you have a known sensitivity to resins or tree-derived products, consult a healthcare professional before use.
For formulators purchasing our extract powders: it is your responsibility to ensure safe usage rates and compliance within your finished formulations.