Canarium luzonicum (Blume) A.Gray also known as “piling liitan” is the Makiling Botanic Gardens (MBG) Plant of the Month for February 2020. Piling liitan belongs to family Burseraceae native to the Philippines. It sometimes called or refer to as “Malapili” because of its resemblance to the pili tree.
TRIVIA: Piling liitan secrete an aromatic and resinous substance called Manila Elemi. It is an oleoresin composed mainly of resenes, resin acid and volatile oils. Its essential oils are used as an alternative to frankincense. It is also used as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and analgesic. It soothes muscles, reduce wrinkles, and helps ease minor respiratory problems.
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by: Angela A. Limpiada and Analyn C. Malayba