Evidence supporting the use of: Balsam (unspecified)
For the health condition: Insect Repellant

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Balsam refers to a group of aromatic resins obtained from various plants, such as Balsam of Peru, Balsam of Tolu, or Canada balsam. Historically, certain types of balsam have been used in traditional medicine and folk practices as insect repellents. For example, Balsam of Peru has a strong, sweet scent and has been incorporated into ointments and salves for its fragrance, which some believed could deter insects. Similarly, in some indigenous and rural cultures, resinous balsams were applied to skin or burned as incense to keep insects at bay. However, the evidence supporting balsam's effectiveness as an insect repellent is largely anecdotal and rooted in tradition rather than rigorous scientific validation. Few, if any, clinical studies have systematically evaluated balsam’s efficacy compared to established repellents such as DEET or citronella. In summary, while the use of unspecified balsam as an insect repellent has some basis in traditional practices, strong scientific evidence to support its effectiveness is lacking, and its use is not widely recommended in modern evidence-based practice.

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Products containing Balsam (unspecified)

We currently have no products on Caring Sunshine that contain this ingredient.