Tonqua Bean
TONQUA BEAN. The Tonqua, Tonka or Tonquin bean, also called the coumara nut, is the seed of Dipterix odorala, a leguminous tree growing to a height of 80 ft., native of tropical South America. The drupe-like pod contains a single seed possessed of a fine sweet " new-mown hay " odour, due to the presence of coumarin (q.v.}. Tonqua beans are used principally for scenting snuff and as an ingredient in perfume sachets and in perfumers' " bouquets."
Note - this article incorporates content from Encyclopaedia Britannica, Eleventh Edition, (1910-1911)
