Linaloe Copal Resin

The name Linaloe is derived from the name Lignum Aloes, or Aloeswood, (Agarwood), given by the Spanish conquerors of Mexico.  Perhaps less of an indication the two trees are the same but that they perceived the aromatic wood as valuable as Agarwood.

Bursera Linaloe is used extensively in the production of Linaloe essential oil, which is distilled from both its berries and its wood. It was one of the original sources of the aromatic molecules Linalool and Linalyl acetate, which are now mainly produced in the lab at reduced cost. Both these compounds received their names from the Linaloe tree.

In the early 1900's, Bursera linaloe trees were planted in India as part of the extensive perfume/essential oil industry there. The Indian trees were later given the name Bursera Delpechiana, though they are identical in all respects to the Mexican Linaloe tree, and the name was later dropped.

Though the resin of the Linaloe tree is not a mainstream aromatic export product, it has been used for centuries in Mesoamerica for rites, rituals and cleansing sacred spaces.

There are almost 90 species of Bursera in Mexico alone. Most yield aromatic resins, and all resins are called "Copal".

Bursera linaloe is a member of the Burseracaea family of trees. They are also called the "Torchwood" and the Incense tree family. The Burseras are in the same family of trees as Frankincense, Myrrh, Elemi and many other fragrant resin-bearing trees used for incense and perfume.

As with many other resins of the Burseracaea family, Linaloe is also used in traditional medicine. It is often dissolved in oil and used to treat sore muscles, joints, and various skin conditions.

This resin is a unique find. I could purchase only a small amount and I don't know if I can get more.

Dan

Materials: Linaloe Copal, Bursera Linaloe resin.