Description
Elemi Gum – Manila Soft White
Elemi gum is the aromatic resin from the Canarium luzonicum tree, which can grow up to 30 meters high and belongs to the same botanical family as frankincense and myrrh. These trees grow wild in the tropical forests of the Philippines.
The resin is naturally secreted when the tree is attacked by a parasite or produced through a traditional “tapping” technique. During tapping, an incision is made in the bark while the tree is sprouting leaves. The pale yellow gum oozes out, solidifies on contact with air, and darkens slightly over time. A mature tree can yield up to 5kg of gum per year.
Elemi has a fresh, citrus-like scent with a subtle spiciness and a hint of fennel. It has been used in Chinese incense as far back as the 7th century for religious ceremonies, home fragrance, and personal perfume. Traditionally, it is believed to help relieve stress, ease nervous exhaustion, and promote feelings of peace.
