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Lentiscus

Lentiscus

Very widespread in the Mediterranean, this evergreen shrub grows in bushes or small trees. It has a grey bark, but a red inner core. It is easily recognisable for its characteristic foliage like a "cushion" and for both its resin and aromatic fragrance. It resists well in dry soil and hot climate, while it suffers from severe frost and thermal shock. However, it recovers well after drastic pruning or damage caused by fire, and is therefore often present in degraded Mediterranean spots. This plant has a long term historical use, appreciated for its many properties, known even today. It was used to wash leather, for cooking with its very aromatic oil content in the ripe fruits, to treat small cuts with the residue of the pressing of olives and finally, it was used to tone the skin with its resin, which prevents aging.