Galbanum plants are large perennial herbs with smooth stems, shiny leaflets and small flowers. They contain resin ducts which exude a milky juice, a natural oleoresin. The dried resinous exudation is collected by making incisions at the base of the stem. The essential oil is steam distilled from the gum resin. Galbanum is native to the Middle East and Western Asia. It is cultivated in Iran, Afghanistan and Turkey.

Galbanum has been used to ease nervous tension and digestive upsets. It has also been used to regulate breathing. In Asia it has been used to treat cuts, bruises, wounds and inflammations. It is said to exhibit antimicrobial properties. It has also been used as a tonic and in perfumery. It has been used in the treatment of abscesses, acne, boils, cuts and inflammations that are slow to heal and is said to be beneficial for alleviating asthma, bronchitis, catarrh and chronic coughs. It also may be useful for reducing stress-related conditions and nervous disorders. It can be used to induce feelings of calm, stability, direction, concentration, fortitude and focus.