Amyris

/ˈæmɪrɪs/ noun

Definition

A genus of aromatic tropical and subtropical trees and shrubs that produce fragrant resins and are used in perfumes and medicines.

Etymology

From Greek 'a-' (without) and possibly 'myrrh' (aromatic resin), though the etymology is disputed. The plants were named for their resinous, fragrant properties.

Kelly Says

Amyris balsam from the amyris plant is called 'sandarac' in commerce, and it's been used in traditional medicine and perfumery for centuries—yet the plant itself remains barely known outside specialist botany and chemistry circles.

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