Natural History of Gaius Plinius Secundus, Vol. 2

That which is called the Royal Ointment, and what are the powders (diapasmata), and how they are heated. Chapter II.

Therefore, the Royal ointment, so called because it is tempered in this way for the kings of the Parthians, consists of myrobalan, costus, amomum, cinnamon, comarus, cardamom, nard-spica, marum, myrrh, cassia, storax, labdanum, opobalsam, calamus and Syrian rush, œnanthe, malobathrum, serichatum, galingale, aspalathos, panax, saffron, cyprus, marjoram, strained honey, and wine. And for this purpose, nothing is produced in Italy, the conqueror of all, nor indeed in all of Europe, except for Illyrian iris and Gallic nard. For wine, rose, and myrtle leaves and oil are understood to be common to almost all lands. They consist of dry scents, which are called diapasmata. For they call the dregs of the ointment "magma." Among all, the most powerful scent is whichever is added last. Ointments are best preserved in alabaster vessels, scents in oil: which is as much more useful for their longevity as it is thicker, such as that from almonds. And the ointments themselves are better with age. The sun is an enemy to them, wherefore they are cooked in the shade in leaden vessels. A test of them is taken on the back of the hand, so that the heat of the fleshy part does not spoil them.

How great is the luxury in ointments, and when they were first in use among the Romans. Chapter III.

This is the material of luxury, of all others the most superfluous. For pearls and gems pass to the heir, and clothes prolong their time; ointments expire immediately and die in their own hours. Their highest recommendation is that, as a woman passes by, the scent may invite those who are doing something else. And they exceed forty denarii per pound.