Lignum vitae wood is a tropical hardwood from the Caribbean, Central and South America. It produces one of the heaviest and most dense woods in the world. It was first exported to Europe in the 17th century, where wood turners found the naturally oily wood ideal for making large communal drinking bowls and luxury items. Extensive use of this wood, both for wood turning and as an ingredient for various medicines and remedies, has led to it becoming an endangered species.