The Himba people live in north-west Namibia, in the Kunene region. In these places people and plants live alongside a great aridity. One of the local plants that gives a resin with a deep and interesting fragrance is Commiphora wildii, known as Omumbiri.
Local projects exist to collect and distill Omumbiri and other plants, yet the raw resin is the easiest form to find, and it is easily appreciated in fumigation.
Omumbiri is usually collected and used by women. The resin is mixed with animal fat and red ochre earth to form a paste that is applied to the skin. According to tradition, this preparation protects the skin, regenerates it and heals.
The resin has a pungent, fresh, almost intoxicating scent, joined by a deep, calming note that keeps us centred and grounded. It is an ideal scent for moments when we need an inspiring force and a fragrance that helps us be present in the here and now, restoring our breath and supporting us in finding our inner strength.