Galbanum is a sticky, aromatic resin that comes from a tall plant in the Apiaceae family, which also includes carrots and parsley. It was one of the ingredients in the special incense used in the tabernacle (Exodus 30:34).
The galbanum plant (Ferula galbaniflua or Ferula gummosa) grows naturally in regions such as Syria and Persia. It has small, greenish-white flowers and fruit that grow in clusters at the top of its stem. Its leaves are divided into many small parts, resembling those of parsley or carrot plants.
To collect galbanum, people cut the plant’s stem near the ground. This releases a milky liquid. This liquid hardens into a waxy, brownish resin. Today, galbanum is sometimes used in making varnish and perfumes.
Sirach 24:15 describes galbanum as having a pleasing aroma. By itself, galbanum has a strong, pungent smell when burned. But it was evidently mixed with other substances to make a pleasant-smelling ointment.