CHAP. 56.—GALBANUM.
Syria produces galbanum too, which grows upon the same
mountain of Amanus: it exudes from a kind of giant-fennel [Note]
of the same name as the resin, though sometimes it is known
as stagonitis. The kind that is the most esteemed is cartilaginous, clear like hammoniacum, and free from all ligneous
substances. Still, however, it is sometimes adulterated with
beans, or with sacopenium. [Note] If ignited in a pure state, it
has the property of driving away serpents [Note]
by its smoke, It
is sold at five denarii per pound, and is only employed for
medicinal purposes.
