On September 3 and 4, 2023, under the patronage of His Excellency Dr. Saud bin Hamoud bin Ahmed Al-Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, took place the sessions of the second International Symposium on 'incense. Organized by the University of Dhofar with the theme “Advancing Herbal Therapy,” the symposium took place at the university’s conference hall in Salalah. International academics and researchers from over 13 countries including Germany, France, Switzerland, Australia, India, China and the United States participated in this symposium.
In these two days there was the presentation and discussion of 45 scientific research articles, as well as lectures and recent studies on local plants and incense. Notable participants include delegations from universities and scientific institutes from Germany, France, Switzerland, Australia, India, China, USA, Saudi Arabia, UAE , Jordan and Morocco. The Ministries of Higher Education, Research and Innovation and the Ministry of Health, as well as the University of Dhofar, Sultan Qaboos University, the University of the East and the National University of science and technology, actively participated. This symposium also presents a valuable opportunity for Omani researchers and postgraduate students to engage in meaningful exchanges.
The conference and scientific discussion sessions were organized in two parts. The first part is dedicated to biology and pharmacology, focusing on the past, present and future of incense. It covers topics such as the preservation and propagation of the frankincense tree, the impact of various environments, and the economic feasibility of frankincense, including its historical use by Omani ancestors. Additionally, a comparative analysis of Oman frankincense resin and the effectiveness of frankincense resin from different countries where it grows was explored.
The second sector encompassed the fields of chemistry, synthesis and manufacturing of food supplements and cosmetic products. Alongside the symposium sessions, there was an exhibition showcasing companies operating in various areas of incense-related products.
