Labdanum obtained from the Cistus creticus is also known as ladanum or ladan. The sticky brown resin has been used for a very long time as a medicinal remedy as well as an important ingredient in the perfume industry because of its similarity to ambergris – the compound that is collected from sperm whales, which is today an endangered species.  The Labdanum is what gives a perfume the deep scent of amber.

The resin is known for its astringent, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic effects.  In Europe during medieval times it was used as a pomander to improve one’s odour and against infection.

Medicinally the resin has been used from ancient times as an expectorant and antibiotic.  When inhaled or taken internally, it is an effective treatment for bronchitis, common cold, fungal respiratory infections and loosens mucus to provide quick relief from cough.

When applied externally it heals wounds, burns and inflamed skin and alleviates pain and swelling. It helps skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema and eve more serious skin infections such as ulcers, tumours, eruption and tubercular skin infections.

It is known to stimulate the healing power of the body. It is also recommended for treating bleeding. Internally it is used for treating diarrhoea and catarrh. It is also known as an effective emmenagogue; it alleviates pain during the cycle and stimulates blood flow to the pelvic region.  Labdanum arrests dandruff when applied to the scalp.