Buy Local: ALKA (Natural Omani Chewing Gum)

Alka is a natural chewing gum, which is very popular in Dhofar. The thin, white, crispy, and disc-shaped product is made from either the resin of frankincense or tishkot tree (scientific name: Euphorbia Balsamifera).
What
Frankincense is known as the divine sap of Dhofar and has been widely used as a medicine to ease inflamed joints to congestion and anxiety. The resin is also used to make Alka. People chew it during family gatherings and special occasions. A prominent scientist from Dhofar, Mohsin Al Amri, says it strengthens gum and prevents tooth decay.
Who
Women in Dhofar region make Alka. They collect resin from frankincense or tishkot. It is then manually rolled and flattened into thin disc-shape before drying it under sun for a few days. The properly dried slices are then packed in polythene bags before being taken to the markets.
Where
The chewing gum is easily available in all souqs in Dhofar region, but it has minimal presence in other souqs in Oman.
How Much
Each slice costs 500 baisa. Regular customers buy it in bulk and stock it at home. Amina, who manufacturers Alka and supplies in Dhofar souqs, says regular customers buy the product for a minimum of OMR 20 as they are worried about its availability.