Use
Originally a category of vegetable substancessoluble in ethanol but insoluble in water, resinin modern technology is generally an organicpolymer of indeterminate molecular weight.The class of flammable, amorphous secretionsof conifers or legumes are considered true resins,and include kauri, copal, dammar, mastic,guaiacum, jalap, colophony, shellac, andnumerous less well-known substances. Waterswellablesecretions of various plants, especiallythe Burseraceae, are called gum resinsand include myrrh and olibanum The officialresins are benzoin, guaiac, mastic, and resin.Other natural resins are copal, dammar,dragon’s blood, elaterium, lac, and sandarac.The natural vegetable resins are largely polyterpenesand their acid derivatives, which find application in the manufacture of lacquers,adhesives, varnishes, and inks.