114 Natural Resin
Natural resin/plant resin is a solid or highly viscous substance of plants that is typically convertible into polymers (Figure 114.1). Plants secrete resins for their protective benefits in response to injury. The resin protects the plants from insects and pathogens.
Humans have used natural resins for thousands of years. The history of resin can be traced to before 1700 BC during the Bronze Age. People used natural resin as adhesives and medicines. Because natural resin is waterproof, ship builders often used it to seal boats, ropes, and tarps.
The production of resin is very common in nature, but only a few plant families can be considered of commercial importance to resin collectors. These ...
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