Frankincense, the aromatic resin that is used in numerous religious and traditional ceremonies, as well is in medicines and perfumes, may be going extinct.

According to a paper in the Journal of Applied Ecology, 7% of the Ethiopian trees that produce most of the world's supply of Frankincense are dying every year, and new trees aren't springing up in their place -- meaning the overall supply of Frankincense could  be halved in the next 15 years.

The shortage is already driving up the price of the sweet smelling resin, which plays a big part in the story of Christmas.

According to The Bible, frankincense was one of the three gifts, along with myrrh and gold, that The Three Wise Men presented to the baby Jesus right after his birth. Learn more about what is killing frankincense off in the video below.

[via ABC News]

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