Shaik Nasser Abdullah Al Nejidi said while handing over very expensive beautifully packed in a carved wooden box Luban at his palatial home in Maʽabilah a village in Muscat, in northeastern Oman “Doctoor! This is Luban. Maafi smoke, but eat”. I did not understand what he meant at that point of time. I have understood what Nasser said, now. I am penning my understanding as under:
Luban, also known as “gum Arabic” or frankincense, is a resin derived from the Boswellia tree that grows in Oman and other parts of the Arabian Peninsula. Interestingly, there are many health benefits that can come from Luban for the human body. This natural gum has previously and currently been used in medicine, baking ingredients, and woodwork.
Luban very useful as it contains many nutrients such as galactose, glucuronic acid, arabinogalactan-protein complex, and glycoprotein (that is the highest protein content). These nutrients are what leads you to great health.
Source of Fiber – Luban is frequently used as a fiber supplement. Women require 25 grams of fiber per day and men require 38 grams. Luban has fiber contents ranging from 80% to 90% to supply the human body.
Weight Loss – Rich insoluble fibers, Luban is the perfect ingredient in aiding your diet and appetite. Luban’s fiber ensures loss of weight because of the decreased amount of hunger. Add this gum as a part of your diet plan and watch the results.
Healthy Teeth and Mouth – Chewing Luban will make teeth healthy. Studies have proved that Arabic gum actually contains antibacterial which will rid your mouth of harmful bacteria. The chewing of gum from the Boswellia sacra tree will reduce the levels of plaque immediately. This gum can also take care of bad breath.
Control Diabetes – Foods rich in fiber help regulate blood sugar levels. Luban contains very high levels of fibers that it is strongly suggested to use for its ability to control blood sugar levels.
Digestive Problems – Luban is known to treat digestive problems because of its fiber, natural sugar, and carbohydrates. This gum contributes to the digestion of process and helps in bacterial levels that are beneficial for the stomach and intestines.
Thus, it has been established by scientists that this gum provides the necessary amount of soluble fiber that is needed by our body to function well and healthy.
Aromatherapy – Luban is widely used in aromatherapy as it has a pleasant and calming fragrance. It is believed to have a positive impact on mood, reducing stress, and improving overall well-being.
Cultural significance – Luban has significant cultural and religious importance in Oman and other parts of the Middle East. It has been used in religious ceremonies for centuries.
Natural air freshener – Luban has a natural and refreshing fragrance that can help purify the air and eliminate unpleasant odors.
Cosmetics – Luban is also used in cosmetics and skincare products for its skin-healing and anti-aging properties. It is believed to have a positive impact on skin elasticity and tone.
Thank you, Shaik Nasser Abdullah Al Nejidi, for giving me the most precious gift. Please not that you, your children and family are in our daily prayers. May the Allah shower his blessings on you.
About the Author
Dr. K. Raja Gopal Reddy is a seasoned internationally qualified Insurance professional.
What you are reading here, may not answer all the questions we have, but has the absolute power of asking unsettling questions which increase the interest in the strange world, and show the contradictory wonders lying just below the surface of the commonest things of life. Look at this disturbing but beautiful thought of Friedrich Nietzsche “God is dead. God remains dead. And we have killed him”.
Dr. Reddy can be reached at: raja66gopal@gmail.com
