Aromatic resins are complex polymeric compounds of natural origin that are used as incense in religious ceremonies, as well as to create the basis of a perfume composition.
Aromatic resins have been known to people since ancient times. Initially, the resins were simply chipped off the trees, but starting from the era of Ancient Egypt, the extraction of resins and the cultivation of tree species were established, which, when cut, release quickly solidifying substances with a pleasant smell.
Incense
Frankincense is considered to be the most ancient aromatic resin. It is harvested from trees of the Bosswellia genus, harvested in North Africa and the Arabian Peninsula. The hardened pieces of resin look like rough stones and are most similar to ordinary amber (which is also a petrified resin). The color of incense is yellowish-golden, but there are pieces of incense of the color of dark honey. When burned (fumigated), incense emits a pleasant warm odor. It is used in carrying out religious sacraments in Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, in addition, it is used as a base (base notes) in women's and men's perfumery.
Myrrh
Another aromatic resin known since ancient times was also originally mined in the region of the Arabian Peninsula. Myrrh is the hardened resin of trees of the Burzer family (in particular Commiphora myrrha). The appearance of myrrh is reminiscent of incense, but the color of this resin is lighter. It is used to this day in cult ceremonies, as well as in perfumery and medicine. In particular, myrrh is an excellent antiseptic, improves digestion and has an astringent effect. In aromatherapy, myrrh is used as a soothing and relaxing agent.
Cedar resin
Cedar resin, or the so-called sap, is of several types. The traditional resin known since antiquity comes from Lebanon (Lebanese cedar resin) and is used in medicine and aromatherapy. Siberian cedar resin is also used in classical and alternative medicine as a powerful antiseptic. In addition, rosin and turpentine, later used in chemical production, are made from such a resin on an industrial scale.
Copal
Copal is another famous aromatic resin from Central and South America. In appearance, it is similar to amber (color, shape, transparency), but the source is not coniferous trees, but trees of the legume family. Copal is used by the Indians as an incense (for religious ceremonies, as well as for funerals). In industry, it was used for the manufacture of varnishes for covering wood, but it was stopped due to the development of polymer chemistry (now synthetic resins are used).