Camphire is one of the earliest known perfumes
Camphire
Hebrew: copher
Lawsonia inermis or alba
After researching several sources, I see no doubt that this camphire is the henna plant. Lawsonia enermis or Lawsonia alba are two names used to classify it. Cypress flower is a common name for this plant. It was valued for its fragrance as well as its many uses in body artwork and in some cultures, tatooing. Three thousand year old mummies still retain the dye found on fingernails. A common practice in ancient days was dying the soles of the feet and palms (Walker).
The flowers are white and grow in clusters. The leaves are somewhat like the olive tree's. The plant grows in Egypt, Syria, and northern India. Estimates of its size range from four to ten feet.
Song of Songs 1:14 (KJV) My beloved is unto me as a cluster of camphire in the vineyards of Engedi.
Song of Songs 4:13 (KJV) Thy plants are an orchard of pomegranates, with pleasant fruits; camphire, with spikenard,
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