Halmaddi Resin

Halmaddi has a light and not unpleasant aroma, whether fresh or burned. However, its primary function in incense compositions is to act as a fixative, helping to project an incense blend's lead actors, those other more delicate and distinguished aromas such as floral extracts and powders.

Halmaddi is odd for a tree resin since most other tree resins dissolve easily in alcohol. Halmaddi will not dissolve in alcohol or water but in fixed/carrier oils and essential oils.

Halmaddi acts as a binder in formed incense and lends wet Dhoop flexibility and cohesion. In "Wet Dhoop," Halmadi pairs well with Ghee, which is the combustible element in the formula and has a smooth, nutty aroma.

Halmaddi resin is tapped in much the same way as Frankincense trees, where the bark is scored or removed in small patches. This stimulates special resin ducts under the bark to produce a resin "Bandaid" to seal and protect the exposed area. 

If left exposed to the air, fresh semi-liquid Halmaddi resin can be dried then ground to a powder. Some find it easier to work with the powder than the sticky fresh resin.

Wild Ailanthus trees were overharvested in the past. However, there are many plantations nowadays, and the government has lifted restrictions on the harvest and sale of Halmaddi resin.

Dan