| A highly
pungent gum-resin, secreted by the lower part of the
leaves of the Cistus ladanifer, a small bush with hardy,
contrasting leaves which thrives in dry, sunny woods
in Mediterranean regions.
Herodotus and Pliny report that labdanum was collected
by combing the beards of goats, which were impregnated
with the substance.
Another technique, in use as late as the 18th century,
consisted of brushing young cistus bushes with a kind
of whip, consisting of leather thongs which, once covered
with resin, were scraped.
The Ishmaelite caravan coming from Gilead to which Joseph
was sold, was transporting labdanum (Genesis 37, 25).
Subsequently, Jacob ordered his songs to offer labdanum,
along with other local products, to their brother, now
an Egyptian dignitary.
<<And their father Israel said unto them, If it
must be so now, do this; take of the best fruits in
the land in your vessels, and carry down the man a present,
a little balm, and a little honey, spices, and myrrh,
nuts and almonds.>> Genesis 43, 11
Its aroma is pleasant, sweet, herbaceous and balsamic.
It’s animal-like odor is reminiscent of ambergris
and is used in perfumery for its fixative properties.
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