Cistus ladanifer L., Cistaceae. Common Gum Cistus or Ladanum/labdanum. Distribution: Southern Europe and N. Africa. The fragrant resin from the sticky leaves, Gum Labdanum, is extracted and used in Mediterranean regions as an insecticide and deodorant ((Lewis & Elvin-Lewis, 2003). Lyte (1578) advises local application to prevent hair loss and cure earache; to remove scars, and on the chest to alleviate coughs. The fumes from leaves burnt on hot coals, were said to cure uterine disorders. Monks collected the resin from the beards and hair of goats which foraged among the plants.