Indonesia's BRIN develops premium perfume from native frankincense oil

Indonesia’s National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) has produced a high‑grade essential oil from the country’s indigenous frankincense resin (kemenyan). The purified oil, described by researcher Aswandi as an elegant amber note that lacks the traditional “frightening” incense smell, is blended with other native oils such as patchouli, ylang‑ylang, jasmine and citrus to create premium fragrances.

Indonesia currently ships 5,000‑6,000 metric tons of raw frankincense to about 60 countries while importing costly perfumes that often use the resin as a raw ingredient. BRIN is promoting its patented purification technology to small and medium‑sized enterprises, aiming to build a domestic fragrance sector, reduce reliance on imported cosmetics, and generate new opportunities for the creative economy. The research also notes therapeutic properties of the oil, including relaxation, focus enhancement and skin regeneration.