malabathricum

Malabathricum refers to the dried leaves of certain trees belonging to the genus Cinnamomum, particularly those native to the Malabar Coast of India. Historically, these leaves were a valuable commodity in ancient Roman and Greek trade, often used as a spice and for medicinal purposes. Their aromatic qualities were highly prized, and they were frequently incorporated into perfumes, incense, and culinary preparations. The exact botanical species from which malabathricum was derived has been a subject of scholarly debate, with various candidates proposed over time, including Cinnamomum tamala and other related species.

The use of malabathricum is documented in ancient texts, such as those by Pliny the Elder and Dioscorides, who described its properties and applications. It was believed to possess warming and digestive qualities, and was sometimes used in remedies for various ailments. The trade route for malabathricum was extensive, connecting the Indian subcontinent with the Mediterranean world. Over centuries, the understanding and specific identification of the plant source have evolved, and the term may have been applied more broadly to aromatic leaves from related species. Modern understanding links it primarily to the Lauraceae family.