OPOPANAX, in the materia medica, is a gum resin of a tolerably firm texture, usually brought to us in loose granules or drops, and sometimes in large masses, formed of a number of these connected by a quantity of matter of the same kind; but these are usually loaded with extraneous matter, and are greatly inferior to the pure loose kind. The drops or granules of the fine opopanax, are on the outside of a brownish red colour, and of a dusky yellowish or whitish colour within: they are of a somewhat viscid appearance, smooth on the surface; and are to be chosen in clean pieces, of a strong smell and acrid taste.
Opopanax is attenuating and discutient, and is gently purgative; it dispels flatulencies, and is good in asthma, in inveterate coughs, and in disorders of the hand and nerves. It also promotes the menses, and is good against all obstructions of the viscera.