Balsam Of Tolu

Ethnic groups from Mexico and Central America used the leaves of Balsam of Tolu as a herbal supplement to treat cold and flu, wounds, asthma and arthritis. It has deodorant properties such that the powder can be used under the arms. It is also used for lung ailments. Tribes from the South American rain forest used Balsam of Tolu as a herbal supplement for sores and abscesses, rheumatism, asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, TB, headache, sprains and STDs (sexually transmitted diseases).

The tree that provides Balsam of Tolu is very tall and grows in many South American countries. This herbal supplement has been called Balsam of Peru because of its former importance in that country.

It is the resin of the tree that is used as a herbal supplement. It is collected in a similar way to the collection of rubber, by 'tapping' the tree and collecting the resin which runs out . Today, El Salvador, Columbia, and Venezuela are the main producers of Balsam of Tolu herbal supplements.

As this herbal plant grew in popularity, Germany started using it for pharmaceutical purposes as well. They found that Balsam of Tolu worked very well for antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic purposes so they immediately started using it for such ailments as ringworm, lice, scabies, minor ulcerations, wounds, bedsores, and nappy rash. It is frequently used in ointments for skin ailments.

It can be found in hair tonics, anti-dandruff shampoos, feminine hygiene sprays and as a natural fragrance in soaps, detergents, creams, lotions, and perfumes. In United States this herbal supplement has a history of being used for suppressing coughs, respiratory problems and cough lozenges and syrups, for sore throats, and as a vapor inhalant for respiratory distress.

Balsam of Tolu has a vanilla like smell and taste and it is used for flavoring cough syrups, soft drinks, confectionaries, and chewing gums. Balsam of Tolu is widely available now in the U.S. The essential oil distilled from the gum is sold in small bottles and used topically, in aromatherapy. The fragrance is considered to be healing and comforting. It is useful for meditation and relaxation which is why it has become so popular amongst the world of aromatherapy. Balsam of Tolu has a very unique aroma which makes it excellent for exotic floral fragrances.

Generally the use of Balsam of Tolu as a herbal supplement is as an ointment to be used for eczema, skin rashes, and skin parasites such as scabies, ringworm, and head lice.

Balsam of Tolu may cause sensitization reactions - so if you have allergies or other sensitivities, best to use it with caution initially.