Textual Research on the Identity of Anba Incense and Ambergris
10.16466/j.issn1005-5509.2025.10.015
- VernacularTitle:唵叭香与龙涎香同一性的信息考证
- Author:
Yu XIA
1
;
Xinyi ZHONG
;
Yu'nuo ZHANG
Author Information
1. 北京中医药大学生命科学学院 北京 100029
- Publication Type:Journal Article
- Keywords:
Anba incense;
ambergris;
identity;
antiquity interpretation;
literature analysis;
ancient medical culture;
fragrant medicine;
research on names and objects
- From:
Journal of Zhejiang Chinese Medical University
2025;49(10):1311-1315
- CountryChina
- Language:Chinese
-
Abstract:
[Objective]To explore the identity between Anba incense and ambergris.[Methods]Through combined approach of classical text interpretation and literature analysis,systematically collecting and screening authoritative records of Anba incense and ambergris from ancient books included in Duxiu Academic Search Platform and contemporary literature included in the CNKI database,this research applies cross-validation and comparative methods to clarify the similarities and differences between these two aromatic substances through comprehensive comparative analysis across five dimensions including nomenclature(etymological investigation),geographical distribution,morphological characteristics,olfactory properties and practical applications.[Results]Linguistic studies show that the Chinese pronunciation of Anba incense and the English pronunciation of ambergris are highly similar.Both names are associated with the Arabic word"Anbar"and refer to the same substance.The geographical distribution of Anba incense and ambergris is consistent,mainly from Arabia and the southeast coastal areas.In addition,the descriptions of the collection methods and sources of these two drugs are obviously overlapping in historical documents.According to the results of the appearance examination,these two drugs are highly similar in appearance and texture.For example,they are both in black or dark,soft lumpy or granular solids,and the color and texture characteristics are also similar.According to the characteristics of these two drugs,there is also a significant similarity in the aroma characteristics and using methods.Additionally,the smell of these two drugs are strong and long-lasting,and they are often in joint use with other fragrances.The value study revealed that Anba incense and ambergris were both precious spices in ancient times.Their high market value and rarity were in line with the purpose of both as tributes.[Conclusion]Anba incense and ambergris have a high degree of similarity in many characteristics,suggesting that they may originate from the same pharmaceutical system.An in-depth analysis of these two aromatic drugs will help to gain a deeper understanding of their position and role in ancient medicinal culture to promote the further development of ancient aromatic drugs archaeology.
