Copaiva

This genus consists of 35-40 species of evergreen trees, native to tropical America and Africa. Copaiba balsam, one of the most plentiful natural perfumery ingredients, is an oleo-resin, collected from several species, including C. guyanensis, C. martii, C. multijuga, C. officinalis, and C. reticulata, as well as C. lansdorfii. The balsam varies considerably in color, viscosity, and odor, according to the source; balsam from C. reticulata has an unpleasant smell and taste, while that from C. multifuga has a delightful coumarin-like odor. The balsam contains 30-90 percent volatile oil, and unusual condensed tannins. It is tapped by drilling holes in the trunk, each tree yielding up to 55 liter (12 gallons). The name Copaifera comes from copai, the native American Tupi word for the tree and its resin.

Evergreen tree with aromatic bark and pinnate leaves, to 13cm (5in) long, which have 3-5 pairs of ovate leaflets. Very small yellow flowers are followed by dehiscent, yellow-brown to dark red fruits with black seeds.

Common Name:	Copaiva
Other Names:	Copaiba
Botanical Name:	Copaifera lansdorffii
Genus:	Copaifera
Family:	Leguminosae
Native Location:	Brazilian rainforests
Cultivation:	Well-drained, sandy soil in shade and high humidity.
Propagation:	By softwood cutting in spring.
Harvest:	Resin is tapped from trees at intervals (the hole is sealed afterward) and used in infusions or distilled for oil.
Height:	18-20m (60-70ft)
Width:	10-15m (30-50ft)
Hardiness:	Min. 13-15°C (55-59°F)
Parts Used:	Oleo-resin
Properties:	An aromatic, antiseptic, stimulant herb with a bitter, burning taste. It improves digestion, has diuretic and expectorant effects, and controls bacterial infection.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for cystitis, bronchitis, vaginal discharge, hemorrhoids, and diarrhea. Externally for chilblains, sores, eczema, and psoriasis. Often combined with Agathosma spp. (See. Oval-leaf buchu), Piper cubeba (See, cubeb), and Santalum album (See, Indian Sandalwood). Excess is purgative and may cause skin rashes and kidney damage.
Economic Uses:	An important fixative in perfumes (especially those with violet, woody, and spicy notes) and a main source of copal, a resin used in varnishes and lacquers. Usable direct from the tree as a substitute for diesel oil.
Bibliography:	Encyclopedia of herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited. pg 179