Labdanum

• Labdanum is a resin obtained from the Cistus shrub used in the manufacture of Roman Perfume.

Description

• After grazing in the cistus shrubs, the sheep and goats would be combed by their shepherds, for the resin, which they then sold to merchants.
• It was used for making Roman Perfume, Incense and in Roman Medicine to treat chest infections and rheumatism.

Roman Perfume

• Roman Perfume was widely used by the Ancient Egyptians, the Ancient Greeks and across the Roman Empire.
• Aphrodite, the Goddess of Love, was associated with Perfume.
• The Temples used large quantities of perfume as Incense and often had perfume workshops nearby.
• The Romans used Perfumes in their Bathhouses.
• Perfume was also worn by Royal Families, the Aristocracy and by Politicians.
• Perfumes were used in Medicine.