Colophony is a resin obtained from pine trees, particularly from the species Pinus palustris and other pines. It is used in various applications, including in the production of varnishes, adhesives, and as a flux in metalworking. Colophony is also known for its use in music, where it can be used to coat the bows of string instruments to improve grip on the strings. In a broader sense, it refers to any resinous substance derived from plants.