Halmaddi is a resin which is extracted from a tree, Ailanthus Triphysa, to be precise. The resin is sticky when first extracted but becomes brittle as it dries making it useful as a binding agent as well as for sealing fragrant ingredients when making incense. It does have a scent of its own, often associated closely with the fragrance of Nag Champa or Plumeria. The sweet, earthy and musky scent of Halmaddi elevates the fragrance of other ingredients it is blended with.

Halmaddi has many health benefits. The essential oil made from Halmaddi is said to heal cuts and wounds faster. The fragrance of Halmaddi can relieve tension and anxiety and generates happiness and a feeling of well-being.

The Ailanthus Triphysa tree was declared part of protected species in the 1990s in India. The government has since relaxed the restrictions and the extraction of Halmaddi has once again been put into motion, this time ethically and sustainably.