Elemi oil is extracted from the resin of Canarium luzonicum (also known as C. commune) of the Burseraceae family and is also known as Manila elemi.

Oil properties

Elemi oil has a citrus-like smell, a bit spicy and is pale in color.

Origin of elemi oil

It is a tropical tree from the Philippines that can grow up to 30 meters (98 feet) high. The tree exudes a pale yellow resin when the tree sprouts leaves.

The resin solidifies on contact with the air and the resin stops flowing when the tree loses its leaves.

The Elemi tree is known locally as 'Pili" and the gum is exported from Manila in two qualities: 'Primera' which is cleaned gum and 'Secunda' which is still crude and unclean.

The ancient Egyptians used elemi oil in the embalming process. These days is used in incense, soaps and varnish.