It is also used industrially for furniture and cabinetmaking. It is so popular that it actually comes in second for most used in these categories behind oak. The wood is a distinctive red-brown color and sometimes found with deep markings. Other major uses include boxes, crates, palates, and particleboard. Some minor uses include instruments and flooring. More recently, chemical analysts have found the resin from sweet gum trees to have anti-inflammatory compounds. This makes it effective in treating skin and mucous infections. It is also used to treat coughs when inhaled and used topically for wounds.  The storax is still an ingredient today for the tobacco industry. It is also used in the perfume industry for the making of perfumes and cosmetics.