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What is Burseraceae?

Marjorie McAtee
Marjorie McAtee

The plant family Burseraceae, also known as the torchwood family, is a plant family of incense trees. Some of the Old World species have enjoyed a long history of cultural importance as sources of fragrance, but New World species also exist and have often been valued by the native cultures familiar with them. The incenses made from trees of the torchwood family include the widely-known aromatics frankincense and myrrh. Even today, members of the Burseraceae family are considered highly valuable for their aromatic properties.

Members of the plant family Burseraceae have a long history of use. They have been of great cultural significance historically, and many continue to hold them in high esteem today. Old World species of the Burseraceae family include Commiphora myhrra, commonly known as myrrh, and Boswellia sacra, commonly known as frankincense. The sap or resin of these plants can be harvested to produce aromatic oils. The oils manufactured from frankincense and myrrh have long been highly valued for use in religious rites, and are frequently mentioned in the Judeo-Christian religious texts.

Frankincense is made from the torchwood family of trees.
Frankincense is made from the torchwood family of trees.

Commiphora gileadensis, commonly known as Balm of Gilead, has long been valued for its fragrance, perhaps more so because it is relatively rare. The Greek physician, pharmacologist, and botanist Dioscorides wrote of the benefits of this plant, as did the Roman physician Galen. It's also mentioned in the Christian Bible.

The sap of the Commiphora africana, commonly known as bdellium, was once used in ceremonial rites honoring the god Mars. The Roman historian Pliny believed that the bdellium tree originated in Bactria. Women of the ancient world were said to carry pouches of the tree's hardened sap, as a form of perfume.

Oils of the Burseraceae plant family have been used to treat gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted disease.
Oils of the Burseraceae plant family have been used to treat gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted disease.

Species of the Burseraceae family exist in the New World, too. Many New World species can be found in the deserts of the American Southwest. They are commonly known as elephant trees in the New World, and their sap can be used to make incense and body fragrances. Native populations once used the sap of elephant trees to waterproof boats and repair broken pottery. The oils are also believed to have medicinal properties, and have been used to disinfect wounds, treat lice infestations, and cure gonorrhea.

The resin of the gumbolimbo tree has been used to treat headache.
The resin of the gumbolimbo tree has been used to treat headache.

South American species of the Burseraceae family, such as Bursera simaruba, or the gumbolimbo tree, have also found medicinal uses among native populations. The Mayans are believed to have used the resin of this tree to treat fever, upset stomach, headache, nosebleed, and burns. They may have also relied heavily on the resin for ceremonial incense production.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Burseraceae family known for?

The Mayans used burseraceae to stop severe nosebleeds, although more effective medical interventions are available today.
The Mayans used burseraceae to stop severe nosebleeds, although more effective medical interventions are available today.

The Burseraceae family, commonly known as the Torchwood or Incense Tree family, is renowned for its aromatic resins. These resins have been historically significant, used in religious ceremonies, traditional medicine, and as fragrances. Frankincense and myrrh, two of the most famous resins, are derived from trees of this family.

How many species are there in the Burseraceae family?

There are approximately 540-550 species within the Burseraceae family, spread across 18 to 19 genera. These species are predominantly tropical, with a significant number found in Africa and the Americas. They play a crucial role in their native ecosystems and are often used in reforestation efforts due to their hardy nature.

What are the common uses of Burseraceae plants?

Burseraceae plants are used for a variety of purposes. Their aromatic resins like frankincense and myrrh are used in perfumery, aromatherapy, and as incense. The resins also have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, making them valuable in traditional medicine. Additionally, the wood of some species is used in construction and carpentry.

Are Burseraceae species endangered?

Some species within the Burseraceae family are considered endangered due to overharvesting and habitat loss. For example, the frankincense-producing species Boswellia sacra faces threats from over-exploitation and land-use changes. Conservation efforts are crucial to protect these species and ensure the sustainable use of their valuable resins.

Can Burseraceae plants grow in temperate climates?

Burseraceae plants are predominantly adapted to tropical and subtropical climates and may struggle in temperate regions. However, some species can be grown in temperate areas if they are protected from frost and provided with a warm, dry environment, such as in a greenhouse or indoor setting.

What ecological role do Burseraceae plants play in their habitats?

Burseraceae plants are key components of their ecosystems, providing food and habitat for a variety of wildlife. Their foliage serves as food for caterpillars of certain butterfly and moth species, while birds and mammals may feed on their fruits. The trees also contribute to soil stability and water regulation within their environments.

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    • Frankincense is made from the torchwood family of trees.
      By: Leah-Anne Thompson
      Frankincense is made from the torchwood family of trees.
    • Oils of the Burseraceae plant family have been used to treat gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted disease.
      By: Ivan Montero
      Oils of the Burseraceae plant family have been used to treat gonorrhea, a sexually transmitted disease.
    • The resin of the gumbolimbo tree has been used to treat headache.
      By: salagatoxic
      The resin of the gumbolimbo tree has been used to treat headache.
    • The Mayans used burseraceae to stop severe nosebleeds, although more effective medical interventions are available today.
      By: Monika Wisniewska
      The Mayans used burseraceae to stop severe nosebleeds, although more effective medical interventions are available today.