Gamboge (tubular, lumpy, reddish-yellow or orange-brown)
【Naming】
【Source】
Hai Yao Ben Cao (Materia Medica of Marine Drugs)
【Commonly Used Degree】
F
【Botanical Origin】
It is the gum resin of the Gamboge family plant, Gamboge Garcinia morella Desr. (Gamboge Tree).
【Characteristics】
It exists as tubular or irregular lumps, 3-5cm in diameter, appearing reddish-yellow or orange-brown, covered with a yellow-green powdery frost, and has longitudinal stripes. It is brittle and easily broken, with a smooth, shell-like or hollow fracture, with a yellowish-brown, waxy luster. When ground with water, it forms a yellow emulsion and burns when thrown into fire. It has a slight odor and a pungent taste.
【Identification】
The translucent, reddish-yellow type is considered the best, while the black type is second best. It is mainly produced in India and Thailand.
【Category】
Resins