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Peruvian Balsam (Myroxylon pereirae syn. M. balsamum var. pereirae)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Fabaceae
  • Common Names: Peruvian Balsam, Balsam of Peru
  • Parts Used: Resin (balsam), bark

Description

Myroxylon pereirae is a tree native to Central and South America, particularly El Salvador. The tree’s resin, known as Peruvian balsam, has been traditionally used for its antiseptic, wound-healing, and expectorant properties. The resin has a rich, vanilla-like aroma and is used in both medicinal and perfumery applications.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in traditional medicine for treating wounds, burns, and skin conditions.
  • Employed as an expectorant in respiratory ailments.
  • Historically added to ointments and liniments for its soothing and antiseptic properties.
  • Used as a fragrance in perfumes and soaps due to its rich aroma.

Constituents

  • Benzyl benzoate
  • Cinnamic acid and cinnamates
  • Vanillin
  • Essential oils
  • Resins

Actions

  • Antiseptic
  • Expectorant
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Analgesic
  • Stimulant

Medicinal Uses

1. Wound Healing and Skin Care:
Peruvian balsam is traditionally used as a topical antiseptic to promote wound healing and treat burns, ulcers, and eczema.

2. Respiratory Support:
Acts as an expectorant and is used to relieve congestion, bronchitis, and coughs.

3. Pain Relief and Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Applied in liniments and balms to soothe sore muscles, joint pain, and rheumatic conditions.

4. Antimicrobial and Antifungal Use:
Effective in addressing fungal infections, minor cuts, and bacterial skin infections.

5. Aromatherapy and Perfumery:
Used in fragrance blends for its sweet, warm, and vanilla-like scent.

Preparation and Dosage

Topical Application (Ointments & Balms):

  • A few drops of balsam mixed with carrier oil or ointment applied to affected areas.

Steam Inhalation (Respiratory Support):

  • A few drops added to boiling water for inhalation to ease congestion.

Liniments (Pain Relief):

  • Infused in oil or alcohol for external application on sore muscles and joints.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Skin Sensitivity: May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals; patch test before use.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid internal use; consult a healthcare provider before topical use.
  • Allergies to Balsam of Peru: Those with sensitivities to fragrance compounds should use with caution.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Warming and stimulating; used for circulation and respiratory support.
  • Traditional Latin American Medicine: Valued as a skin healer and antiseptic.
  • Ayurveda: Primarily balances Kapha and Vata, but excessive use may aggravate Pitta.

Combinations

  • For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and comfrey.
  • For Respiratory Support: Combine with eucalyptus and thyme.
  • For Pain Relief: Combine with wintergreen and arnica.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Resin is obtained through bark tapping and collection.
  • Storage: Store in airtight containers away from heat and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Myroxylon pereirae’s antimicrobial, wound-healing, and expectorant properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

Peruvian Balsam remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for skin healing, respiratory support, and pain relief.