Galipot

Galipot, also known as "barras," refers to the hardened resin that accumulates on pine trees, particularly maritime pines ( Pinus pinaster). It is a natural exudate, a viscous, sticky substance released from the tree when the bark is injured or during resin tapping practices. Unlike processed resin, galipot is typically a crude, unrefined form, often containing impurities such as bark, needles, and other debris.

Galipot is primarily composed of rosin and turpentine, the same basic components found in processed pine resin. However, the proportion and quality of these components can vary depending on factors such as the tree species, the season, and the age of the resin.

Traditionally, galipot has been used in various applications, primarily as a raw material for producing rosin and turpentine. It has also found uses in caulking for boats, torches (due to its flammability), and historically in some traditional medicines. The collection of galipot can be part of resin harvesting practices, although its value is generally lower than that of tapped resin. Modern industrial practices usually favor collecting directly tapped resin rather than relying solely on galipot.