Succinic acid

Succinic acid is an organic compound that is found naturally in amber as well as in some plants and animals. Here are some key points about succinic acid:

• It is a colorless crystalline solid with a sour, tangy taste.
• In amber, succinic acid makes up around 3-8% of its composition.
• When amber is warmed by skin contact, succinic acid is slowly released as an oil or vapor.
• Succinic acid has been used for centuries in folk medicine as it is believed to have anti-inflammatory, fever-reducing, and pain-relieving properties.
• It is produced industrially today as a food additive and ingredient in supplements, pharmaceuticals, and some chemical products.
• In the body, succinic acid plays a role in the citric acid cycle and energy production in cells.
• Potential benefits attributed to succinic acid include reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, acting as an antioxidant, and having a calming effect.

So in summary, succinic acid is a naturally-occurring compound found in amber that has been used historically for its purported medicinal effects, and is still used as an ingredient today in various products.