Dragon's blood -resin-

Dragon's Blood

Dragon's Blood (Croton Lechleri) - Resin

• Croton lechleri

Dragon's Blood: what is it?

The dragon's blood, also known by its scientific name "Croton Lechleri" or "sangre de grado," is a resin of a vibrant red color obtained from various plant species, particularly from the genera Croton, Dracaena, Calamus (Rattan), and Pterocarpus: in our case, it is the Croton Lechleri, a tree native to South America. The other dragon's blood found around normally comes from the island of Socotra or Indonesia, almost magically different plants but with very similar properties.

Dragon's blood has deep roots in human history: in ancient times, it was used for a variety of purposes, from wood lacquering to medicine, also serving as precious incense to burn or as a natural dye. Its versatility has made it valuable in cultures around the world, and despite its decreased use due to high cost, it is still sought after for some cosmetic and medicinal products. The "magical properties" and mystery of dragon's blood continue to exert an irresistible attraction, blending its magical and healing properties into the collective memory of humanity.

Dragon's Blood: origins and plant

The term "dragon's blood" does not refer to a single resin, but rather to various variants derived from plants mainly found in tropical and subtropical regions of our planet. These plants, which give rise to this precious essence, grow lush and majestic, and their bark hides the secret of this substance. In fact, dragon's blood resin is extracted thanks to the natural exudation that occurs in cracks and crevices of the bark. However, in many cases, to facilitate the obtaining of this raw material, strategically positioned incisions are made on trunks, branches, and even fruits, similar to plums. The resin that oozes out has a deep and bright color, similar to that of blood, from which it derives its evocative name. Its smell is peculiar, a combination of distant lands and pristine nature, while the taste varies depending on the specific plant it comes from. From a chemical point of view, its composition is a complex balance of elements, making it unique and sought after for various uses.

History

The journey through the history of dragon's blood (not of Rancore, if you are looking for the song lyrics, you are in the wrong place!) takes us back in time to exotic and mysterious places. Historical records reveal that the use and trade of this resin have deep roots in the ancient island of Socotra, located in the Indian Ocean between Yemen and Somalia. From this island, the resin derived from Dracaena cinnabari was exported along the renowned incense route to the Arabian Peninsula, reaching the markets of the Mediterranean and the Near East. However, in Roman history, there are often traces of confusion regarding dragon's blood. In particular, it was often mistaken for Cinnabar, a potentially poisonous mineral. Yet, despite these confusions, the dragon's blood from Dracaena cinnabari remained the most sought after, and the island of Socotra became its beating heart.

But the mystery does not stop there. In the ancient Chinese Empire, it was not uncommon to find dragon's blood derived from different plant species, sold indiscriminately without reference to its origin. In the 15th century, the crystalline waters of the Canary Islands revealed another secret: the Dracaena draco, a plant that secretes a resin similar to dragon's blood, endemic to these islands and some areas of Morocco. But Southeast Asia, with its lush forests and hidden secrets, became another hub of dragon's blood production. Here, especially in the Sunda Islands like Sumatra and the Moluccas, the resin was extracted from the rattan palm of the Daemonorops genus. The ripe fruits of this plant, similar to clustered plums, are covered in a shiny red resin. By processing these fruits and separating the resin, the precious dragon's blood is obtained, traditionally shaped into solid spheres, known as "dragon's heart."

Through centuries and cultures, dragon's blood has traced a fascinating history, intertwining legends, trade, and mysteries.

Dragon's Blood: properties

In addition to its fascinating history and origin, dragon's blood has a wide range of properties that have fascinated humanity for centuries.

In the lush hearts of the Amazon, local populations have relied on dragon's blood as a natural remedy. They generously apply it to accelerate wound healing, disinfect abrasions, and to alleviate discomfort caused by insect bites. But not only that, as a few drops ingested have traditionally been used to alleviate gastrointestinal disorders.

But dragon's blood is not limited to its healing power. In ancient times, dragon's blood was associated with magical properties. Its reddish smoke, released by combustion, was believed to have the power to exorcise evil, neutralize negative energies, and, in a romantic revolution, attract love and fortune. In addition to these magical powers, however, in various regions of South America, dragon's blood has been exploited for its medicinal benefits against diseases such as malaria, migraines, and anemia.

In India, the sacred scent of dragon's blood still permeates the air during ritual ceremonies, burned as incense. But it is not just an Eastern tradition: Hoodoo and Voodoo in New Orleans have incorporated dragon's blood into their magical pantheon. In the practice of Hoodoo, dragon's blood plays a central role, used in mojo hands to attract prosperity and love. It is also burned as incense, purifying environments from dark and negative influences. And for more refined magicians, the red ink known as "Dragon's Blood" becomes essential, used to trace magical seals and talismans.

What is dragon's blood used for? Uses

Dragon's blood is a substance with multiple uses. Its numerous applications span the fields of medicine, cosmetics, art, and even magic.

Starting from the roots of traditional use, on the island of Socotra, the resin extracted from Dracaena cinnabari is seen as a panacea. Here, it is often used to heal wounds, eczema, and other skin disorders, exploiting its coagulant properties. Its ability to heal wounds and eczema is accentuated by the presence of taspine, a substance that promotes healing by calling fibroblasts, and by proanthocyanidins, which further accelerate this process. Paradoxically, the variety derived from plants of the Daemonorops genus in Southeast Asia has the opposite effect: anticoagulant. This multifunctional resin is also sought after for its anti-diarrheal, febrifuge, healing properties for the gastrointestinal tract, and antiviral properties for the respiratory tract.

Its historical use in the Mediterranean basin and the Near East focused on its medicinal properties, so much so that ancient Greek writers like Dioscorides listed its benefits. But dragon's blood is not limited to medicine. In China, for example, it is used in the art of wood lacquering, giving wooden furniture a vibrant red color and being used as a dye for decorations during special festivities.

Italian luthiers of the 17th century drew on this resin to create special varnishes, ideal for finishing violins and other string instruments. In the past century, it was even found in toothpaste, further testifying to its versatility. 

But contemporary cosmetics have found a true ally in dragon's blood. Synthesized in oily form or incorporated into other products, it forms a veil on the skin that maintains hydration, fights free radicals, prevents wrinkles, and improves damage caused by UVB rays. With anti-aging, anti-inflammatory, and protective properties, it is gaining popularity in many anti-aging formulas.

Therapeutically, dragon's blood is a treasure for treating disorders such as dysentery, gastric ulcers, and hives, to name a few. 

Dragon's blood for sale online

As the popularity of dragon's blood continues to grow, thanks to its numerous beneficial properties, finding a reliable source to purchase it can be a challenge. Fortunately, Terzaluna offers a solution at the click of a button. In our e-commerce, interested parties can purchase dragon's blood in a convenient 20 ml package. Designed to ensure simple and measured use, the bottle comes with a dropper, allowing users to make the most of the product's properties without waste. Now, with Terzaluna, accessing the benefits of dragon's blood is easier and more convenient than ever.

How much does dragon's blood cost?

Thanks to Terzaluna, it is possible to procure dragon's blood directly online. A 20 ml dropper bottle, with its authentic origin from South America, is offered on the site at the price of 16.90 euros.An affordable cost for a treasure of nature, ready to bring well-being into the life of those who use it.