Tragacanth - tasteless plant resin for gluing the wrapper
No matter how skillfully it’s rolled, even the finest handmade cigar doesn't stay together on its own. This is quite literally true, as every cigar, whether hand-rolled ("totalmente a mano") or machine-made, is glued at the mouth end with a special plant resin. This resin is known as tragacanth, or sometimes simply “gum tragacanth.”
Origin and Properties
Tragacanth has been known as a binding and thickening agent since ancient times and is even mentioned in the Bible. It is harvested from the astragalus shrub, which grows primarily in warm, dry regions such as Iran and India, and also in some Mediterranean areas. The plant is harvested only after several years. In a lengthy process using specially developed techniques, the resin is extracted by cutting the plant and processing its roots. Historically, tragacanth was used in medicine production, by confectioners, and even in handicrafts. The resin has unique properties that distinguish it from other binders: it has a smooth surface, is odorless and tasteless, and is heat-resistant. These qualities make it ideal for cigar production. Additionally, it is completely harmless; it’s even approved as a food additive without any usage limitations.
How Is Tragacanth Used?
In cigar production, tragacanth is used at the final stage of manufacturing. After the filler blend of Volado, Seco, and Ligero leaves is assembled, the binder leaf is wrapped around it, giving the cigar its initial stability. Next, the wrapper is wrapped around this cigar bundle to enhance the flavor and provide a smooth, appealing exterior. To ensure it all holds together, the cigar must be “glued,” and this is where the plant resin tragacanth comes into play. A small amount of tragacanth is enough to secure the wrapper at the mouth end, giving the cigar the stability it needs. This tasteless resin leaves the flavor unaffected, and its heat resistance prevents the wrapper from loosening toward the end of the smoke. To keep the wrapper intact even when cutting the cigar, the cap at the cigar's end is also glued with a bit of tragacanth.
In short, tragacanth ensures that the wrapper, binder, and filler of the cigar stay together, allowing the aficionado to fully enjoy their smoke without sacrificing or distorting the flavor.
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