Gum Arabic(Acacia senegal) or acacia gum is made from acacia resin, specifically that of Acacia senegal. It is used in the food industry as a stabilizer and also used as a binder in the production of incense and fireworks.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Gum Arabic, a natural gum made from the hardened sap of acacia trees, is often associated with stability and grounding in magical practices.
It is commonly combined with other herbs and resins in incense blends to enhance their binding properties and amplify their effectiveness in rituals.
Magically, Gum Arabic is used for protection, purification, and to strengthen the resolve of spells and intentions.
Additionally, it is a popular ingredient in ink for writing talismans and charms, as it is believed to ensure the longevity and potency of the written magic.
It also has its own light fragrance and may be used alone or in combination with other resins, such as frankincense, myrrh to purify and sanctify an area or dragon’s blood for communicating with or calling up the dead.
Gum arabic resonates with masculine energy and is associated with the air element, the sun and aquarius
Contents
Origin of gum arabic
Use dates back to over 4000 years ago. In fact, it was used by Egyptian artisans, who appreciated its important viscous qualities and used it as a binder for pigments in papyrus, as a thickener in cosmetics and also in mummification.
There are at least 400 species of acacia cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions to produce gum, mainly in Africa (Senegal, Sudan, banks of the Nile) and Australia. But above all, Sudan holds 50% of world gum production: an absolute record.
| Time Period | Culture/Region | Use | Source/Reference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ancient Egypt | Egypt | Used in mummification, as a paint binder, and in medicinal preparations. | Historical texts, such as Ebers Papyrus and wall inscriptions. |
| Ancient Greece and Rome | Mediterranean | Employed as a thickening agent in foods and as a medicinal ingredient for various ailments. | Works of Hippocrates and Pliny the Elder. |
| Islamic Golden Age | Middle East | Utilized in calligraphy, medicine, and confectionery. | Medical texts by Avicenna and Al-Razi. |
Natural characteristics of gum
This gum is a 100% natural product because it is extracted from the bark of a tree following the incision of the trunk. Often this sap is produced spontaneously by the plant due to temperature changes, or to eliminate parasites. To repair the broken bark, the tree begins to exude a sticky substance. This process is called gummying.
Wounds on the trunk and consequently the secretion of this sticky latex are more frequent in adult or old trees, whose bark is drier. Acacia is more profitable in terms of gum yield when it ages or when it finds itself in difficult situations, such as in nutrient-poor soil, or extreme drought.
The gum just secreted from the bark is soft, but in the open air it tends to harden quickly. As soon as it hardens, it appears in the form of rounded irregular flakes, light or amber in colour. And at this point it can be collected, taken to purify and then sold.
It is also found in the form of white or yellowish-white flakes, granules, crystals or powders, or as a spray-dried substance.
Symbolism of gum arabic and meaning
Historically, Gum Arabic has been revered in various cultures. In ancient Persia, the Magi used it as incense in religious ceremonies, believing its smoke carried prayers to the heavens. In Arabian folklore, Acacia, the source of Gum Arabic, was considered the “Tree of Knowledge,” symbolizing wisdom and hidden secrets.
This golden resin, with a glassy appearance and an intense scent, comes from different species of Acacia from North Africa. Here the Acacia tree was honored as the residence of the Goddess who granted fertility to women and healing to the sick. In ancient Egypt Acacia was used for embalming mummies and its role was fundamental in both medicine and magic.
Magical use: usually burned together with sandalwood and is recommended for those who want to obtain clarity and develop mediumistic abilities.
Gum arabic: what is it used for?
The field of use is truly vast, because it is edible, glue, prevents the crystallization of sugars and emulsifies fats. We can say that the main uses are:
- food industry
- pharmaceutical
- cosmetics
- glues and paints
A bit of gum arabic is also found in gummy sweets and cigarettes: it is present in the adhesive strip to be moistened with saliva which is part of the cigarette papers.
Magickal uses of gum arabic
Gum Arabic, the resin from the Acacia tree, holds significant importance in various spiritual and magickal practices. Known for its protective and purifying properties, it has been utilized in rituals, spells, and ceremonies across different cultures and traditions.
| Use | Correspondence | Ritual/Application | Desired Outcome |
|---|---|---|---|
| Communication | Mercury, the planet of communication and intellect. | Used in incense for enhancing clarity in communication and understanding. | Facilitates clear and effective communication, aids in negotiation and articulation. |
| Protection | Element of Earth, grounding and stabilizing energies. | Incorporated in protective charms and amulets. | Creates a shield against negative energies, promotes safety and stability. |
| Binding | Associated with binding spells and stability. | Used in spellwork to bind intentions or outcomes. | Ensures stability and continuity, prevents disruptions in plans and relationships. |
Protection and Purification
- Gum Arabic is commonly burned as incense to create a protective atmosphere. Its smoke forms a barrier against negative energies, spirits, and malevolent forces. This protective quality makes it ideal for use during rituals and spells aimed at safeguarding individuals or spaces.
- The resin’s purifying properties are harnessed by burning it on a charcoal disc. The resulting smoke can cleanse spaces, objects, and individuals of stagnant or negative energies, providing a fresh and purified environment for spiritual work. Due to its potency, only a small amount is needed to fill a room with cleansing smoke.
Spiritual Connection and Enhancement
Burning Gum Arabic during meditation or divination rituals can enhance spiritual awareness and psychic abilities. Its use can facilitate deeper connections with higher realms, allowing practitioners to receive insightful messages and guidance from the divine.
Modern Magickal Practices
Incense Blends:
Gum Arabic is a popular ingredient in modern incense blends. It enhances the potency of these blends, imbuing them with protective and purifying properties. Practitioners often mix it with other resins and herbs to create customized incense for specific rituals and spells.
Crafting and Tools:
Acacia wood, from which Gum Arabic is derived, is prized for making magickal tools such as wands, staves, and altar items. These tools help practitioners channel their intentions and magickal energy more effectively.
Best way to burn gum arabic
When using Gum Arabic as incense, place a small piece on a charcoal disc in a fireproof bowl or plate. Ensure good ventilation as the smoke can be intense.
Where to store it and how to handle it?
Store Gum Arabic in a cool, dry place to maintain its potency. Handle with clean, dry hands or utensils to avoid contamination and stickiness.
Conclusion
Gum Arabic’s rich history and versatile uses make it a valuable component in both traditional and modern magickal practices. Its protective, purifying, and spiritually enhancing properties provide practitioners with a powerful tool for their rituals and spells.
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