Natural Gums and Resins: Botany and Sustainable Uses in Medicine, Nutrition, Perfumery and Cosmetics

Tree resins such as mastic, gum arabic, frankincense and myrrh have been used for centuries all over the world. This book presents different fields of application for natural gums and resins in medicine, nutrition and cosmetics, taking some selected medicinal plant species as examples. It provides valuable information and a better understanding of the ecologically sustainable use of these globally significant plant raw materials. This is especially important for the processing industry. The contents include: Historical significance Cultivation Ecologically sustainable use Harvesting and trade Postharvest and storage management Processing for the pharmaceutical, cosmetic and perfume industry Protection and conservation of endangered species This book is of interest to researchers in botany and plant science, medicinal plants, pharmacy, chemistry and medicine, also practitioners in herbal and complementary medicine.