Harvesting/tapping techniques for production of natural resins andoleo-resins – A review

Abstract

Natural resins and ole-resins are among the important non timber forest products commonly used in paints, varnishes, paper, cosmetics, food and pharmaceutical industries. Resins occur in a wide range of plants. The resins may be found in any part of the plant or may occur only in the inner tissues and are extracted from the trees by tapping the trees. Resin tapping is done by exposing the resin ducts by making suitable incision on the stem of trees. The resin is exuded from the resin canals where incision is made and is collected by various methods. Most of the natural resins are collected in small quantities by forest dwellers by adopting traditional tapping methods. The tapping methods used are brutal and injurious to the plants, often leading to their death. The technology available is old and the innovations are essential for sustainable yield and quality control. Concerted efforts by researchers and agencies such as research Institution, Universities and non-governmental agencies is urgently needed to improve method of tapping and collection for sustainable production of resins.