2334. Civet

Nomenclature

Zibeth.

Description and references

Unctuous secretion from receptacles between the anus and genitalia of both male and female civet cat. Constit. Civetone and similar compds.

Properties

Semi-solid, yellowish to brown unctuous substance; unpleasant, subacrid, bitter taste; fusible and burns without leaving much residue. Insol in water; partly sol in hot alcohol or in ether.

Use

As a fixative in perfumery.