Iran galbanum

Galbanum carries one of the longest unbroken records of any natural perfumery ingredient. It appears in the Old Testament as a component of holy incense, and Egyptian texts document its use in embalming preparations. Ancient Persians, who first cultivated knowledge of the Ferula plant, incorporated galbanum resin into medicinal and ceremonial preparations for centuries before perfumery existed as a Western discipline. Greek physicians including Dioscorides recorded its therapeutic applications, and Roman physicians including Galen documented its use in second-century medical practice. Greek and Roman perfumers burned galbanum in incense, added it to scented bath waters, and incorporated it into skin balms and unguents. Throughout antiquity, galbanum occupied a dual role as both medicine and luxury cosmetic ingredient. The name itself derives from the Hebrew chelbenah, revealing deep roots in ancient Middle Eastern aromatic tradition. When modern perfumery emerged in the 19th century, perfumers turned to galbanum as the reference point for creating green accords, a role it retains today.