Definition

Noun: 1. A dark brown, syrupy resin: A thick, fragrant liquid obtained from the bark of the Myroxylon balsamum tree, native to Central and South America. It is historically and medicinally valued for its antiseptic and healing properties.

Usage

• Balsam of Peru is used as a singular, uncountable noun to refer to the medicinal substance itself.
• It is typically used in medical, historical, or botanical contexts.

Examples

• The traditional remedy contained balsam of Peru to help the wound heal.
• Balsam of Peru can cause allergic reactions in some individuals with sensitive skin.
• In the 19th century, balsam of Peru was a standard item in many medical kits.

Advanced Usage

• As a sensitizer: In modern dermatology, balsam of Peru is recognized as a common cause of allergic contact dermatitis. It is listed on many standard patch test panels to diagnose fragrance and flavor allergies.
  • The dermatologist tested her for an allergy to balsam of Peru.

Variants and Related Words

• Peruvian balsam: A direct synonym for balsam of Peru.
• : The scientific name of the tree species from which the balsam is harvested.
• Balsam: A broader term for any of various fragrant, resinous oils or oleoresins from certain trees and shrubs.

Synonyms

• Peruvian balsam
• resin (an older botanical name)

Notes on Meaning

• The term specifically refers to the resinous product, not the tree itself (which is the "Peruvian balsam tree").
• Despite its name, it is not a true balsam in the strictest botanical sense but is classified as an oleoresin.

Noun

1. dark brown syrupy balsam from the Peruvian balsam tree used especially in dressing wounds and treating certain skin diseases