Evidence supporting the use of: Tolu Balsam
For the health condition: Ulcerations (external)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Tolu Balsam (from Myroxylon balsamum tree resin) has a long history of use in traditional and herbal medicine, particularly in Latin America and Europe. Its application to external ulcerations is rooted primarily in tradition rather than robust scientific validation. Historically, Tolu Balsam has been used as a topical antiseptic and healing agent, attributed to its aromatic resins and the presence of compounds like cinnamic and benzoic acids, which were believed to have antimicrobial and wound-healing properties. It was included in various pharmacopeias and compounded ointments for skin ulcerations, wounds, and sores in the 19th and early 20th centuries, typically as a component of "balsamic" ointments. However, contemporary scientific studies specifically evaluating the efficacy of Tolu Balsam on external ulcerations are scarce, and modern clinical use is limited due to sensitization and allergic reactions it can cause. While some in vitro studies suggest mild antimicrobial activity, there is a lack of robust clinical trials or evidence to fully support its effectiveness for treating external ulcerations by current standards. Its use persists in some traditional herbal practices, but overall, the evidence is historical and tradition-based, with a low level of scientific endorsement for this indication.
Other ingredients used for Ulcerations (external)
aloe verabisabolol
dyer’s woad root
Japanese sophora
lactoperoxidase
lauric acid
marshmallow
protease
vitamin C
zinc
rubia cordifolia
yarrow
moss
amber
birch
sheep's sorrel
assam indigo
camphor oil
stillingia
wood betony
white oak
melaleuca alternifolia
arnica
Ardisia
acacia
Agrimony
Antirrhinum majus
Achyranthes
Abrus
Alchornea
Alchemilla
Ajuga
Aucubin
American Liverleaf
Aquilegia formosa
Allantoin
Alkanet
Ampelopsis
Acemannan
Asarabacca
Abuta
Alkanna
Arisaema
Butter
Bai Ji
Baliospermum
Baphicacanthus cusia
Bleeding Heart
Black-Eyed Susan
Bloodroot
Benzoin
Borate
Bletilla
Boxwood
Comfrey
Celandine
Cranesbill
Cedrus libani
Chiococca alba
Cocklebur
Dragon's Blood
Dianthrone
Erigeron
English Elm
European Field Elm
Echinodorus
Elaeagnus glabra
Oak
Other health conditions supported by Tolu Balsam
AbrasionsBites and Stings
Boils
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Cuts
Lesions
Scratches and Abrasions
Skin (infections)
Ulcerations (external)
Wounds and Sores