The molle, a tree of no obscure name, furnishes solid wood for building,
but liable to be moth-eaten. It is adorned with leaves, like those of a
laurel, which, when bruised, serve for dressing goats'-skins, and for
medicinal purposes. The trunk distils a quantity of very fragrant gum,
which is burnt instead of frankincense. It bears fruit of a black
colour, the rind of which, when unripe, is of a pale blue. This fruit is
boiled in water, and, being sweeter than the alfaroba, makes a sharp and
sweet syrup, which, mixed with water, affords a pleasant, but powerful
drink. This liquor imparts a sort of ferocity to the eyes of persons
intoxicated with it, which continues two days. Physicians use both the
boughs and the rosin of this tree for various medicinal purposes.