Herb
Balm of Gilead
Balm of Gilead is a fragrant poplar-bud salve with a biblical name, traditionally rubbed on skin and used in chest rubs or lozenges for coughs.
⤢📊 How it ranks (our editor score) — 55/100Tap to see the breakdown
👶 Safe for children?
This remedy carries age-related cautions. Please read them before giving it to a child, and check with your pediatrician or pharmacist first.
- Poplar resin contains salicin, related to aspirin — avoid if allergic to aspirin/salicylates, and avoid giving it internally to children due to Reye's syndrome concerns
🌱 What it is
Balm of Gilead refers to a resinous salve or oil infusion made from the sticky buds of balsam poplar or cottonwood trees, named after the healing balm mentioned in Scripture.
✨ Why it's good for you
- Traditionally used topically to soothe chapped, dry, or minor irritated skin
- Traditionally used as a chest rub or lozenge for a scratchy throat and cough
- A fragrant, long-standing folk remedy with a biblical namesake
🥄 How to use it
Apply a small amount of balm-of-gilead salveA soothing herbal ointment for the skin. How to make a salve → to chapped skin, minor cuts, or the chest as a rub, or use a lozengeA small medicated sweet that dissolves slowly to soothe the throat. How to make a lozenge → or syrupA sweet, thick herbal liquid that soothes the throat. How to make a syrup → made from the buds for a scratchy throat. Patch-test a small area of skin first since the resin can be sticky and occasionally irritating.
How much: Apply salveA soothing herbal ointment for the skin. How to make a salve → to skin as needed, or use lozenges/syrupA sweet, thick herbal liquid that soothes the throat. How to make a syrup → per product label.
Why it works: The aromatic resin in poplar buds is traditionally regarded as soothing and protective for skin and, when inhaled or taken as a lozengeA small medicated sweet that dissolves slowly to soothe the throat. How to make a lozenge →, softening to an irritated throat, though modern research is limited.
⚠️ Cautions
- Traditional use only — modern clinical evidence is very limited
- Do not apply to broken or deeply wounded skin without medical advice; a cut that is deep, won't stop bleeding, or shows signs of infection needs a doctor
- A cough lasting more than 2-3 weeks, or with fever or difficulty breathing, needs medical attention
📚 Learn more
🌿 Deeper natural detail
🩺 The conventional view
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💬 Ask Remy about Balm of Gilead
📚 Resource confidence
Based on mentions in health references
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