bleeding. Compounds butein and sulfuretin are antioxidants, and have inhibitory effects on aldose reductase and advanced glycation processes. Buddhist monks who practiced the art of Sokushinbutsu would use the tree's sap in their ceremony. Wax The fruits of T. vernicifluum can also be processed to produce a waxy substance known as Japan wax used for numerous purposes including varnishing furniture and producing candles. The fruits of the trees are harvested, dried, steamed, and pressed to extract the wax, which hardens when cooled. See also Lacquer Lacquerware Shimose powder Urushi-e Urushiol References Further reading Duke, James A.; Ayensu, Edward S. Medicinal Plants of China. Algonac, Mich.: Reference Publications, Inc. 1985. . Stutler, Russ. "A Little more information on Urushi". December 2002. Suganuma, Michiko. "Japanese lacquer". External links Toxicodendron vernicifluum in the Flora of China Heat treatment of Japanese lacquerware renders it hypoallergenic vernicifluum Trees of Korea