OMAN:Breakthrough in cancer cure Breakthrough in cancer cure

Omani researchers find frankincense effective in breast cancer treatment — By Mai al Abriya — MUSCAT — A group of Omani researchers in cooperation with some experts in Nizwa University discovered a cure for breast cancer. The medicine is extracted from frankincense oil (Luban). After some extensive studies, the Omani researchers discovered the existence of the substance AKBA in the grains of the Golden Luban, which is the main substance in medicine for cancer. “Luban is an ancient medical herb that is so abundant in Oman. We proved the medical influence in the Luban in a more scientific professional way”, Dr Ahmed Suleiman al Harasi, Assistant Dean for Scientific Studies and Research in Nizwa University, said. Although there are many companies selling the AKBA in the market, the Omani researchers could double the production of this substance in the laboratory to 30 per cent.

The Omani Luban oil proved that its purity could exceed the most pure oil in the world.

The oil could differentiate between the injured cells and the healthy ones, that can’t be conducted by the radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The researchers were able to separate the contents of the oil by microwave and they discovered about 98 substances, all used for medical purposes. This achievement will play a vital medical and economic role in the Sultanate as one gram of the AKBA costs about RO 150,000. The studies of the researchers continue as they are not trying to extract the incense substance that is used to cure depression. Frankincense is a valuable oleo-gum-resin harvested by tapping of the wild Boswellia sacra tree in the Dhofar Mountains, in south Oman. Boswellia sacrum is without doubt the most famous plant of Oman and its resin formed the basis of trade in ancient civilisations more than 7,000 years ago. It has vied with gold and precious stones in the past in terms of popularity and worth for trade, being shipped to ancient Rome, India and China. Today, frankincense is also used frequently in almost every household in Oman as well as other Arab countries.