PERU BALSAM: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews

Overview

Peru balsam is an oily sap obtained by removing the bark of the Myroxylon balsamum tree and scorching the exposed wood. It is used to make medicine.

Don't confuse Peru balsam with tolu balsam, which is obtained from the same tree, but by making a V-shaped cut through the bark and underlying wood.

Despite serious safety concerns when taken by mouth and possible safety concerns when applied to the skin, people take Peru balsam for cancer, infection of the intestines by parasites, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

How does it work ?

Peru balsam might prevent bacterial growth and kill tiny insects (mites) that cause a skin condition called scabies.

Uses & Effectiveness

Insufficient Evidence for

Anal itching.
Bruises.
Burns.
Cancer.
Diaper rash.
Hemorrhoids.
Infection of the intestines by parasites.
Bed sores (pressure ulcers).
Frostbite.
Minor bleeding.
Skin irritation.
Leg sores caused by weak blood circulation (venous leg ulcer).
Wound healing.
Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of Peru balsam for these uses.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Peru balsam is LIKELY SAFE in the small amounts used as a flavoring in some foods. Peru balsam is LIKELY UNSAFE to take by mouth as a medicine because it can damage the kidneys.

When applied to the skin: Peru balsam is POSSIBLY SAFE when used on the skin over a short period of time (less than one week). It can cause allergic skin reactions.

Special Precautions and Warnings

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Peru balsam is LIKELY UNSAFE to take by mouth during pregnancy or when breast-feeding. It can cause kidney damage. Peru balsam is POSSIBLY UNSAFE to apply to the skin during breast-feeding. If it gets on the nipple, the nursing infant might be poisoned. There isn't enough reliable information to know if Peru balsam is safe to apply to the skin when pregnant. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Kidney disease: Peru balsam might cause kidney damage and might make existing kidney disease worse. Don't use Peru balsam if you have kidney problems.

Interactions

We currently have no information for PERU BALSAM overview.

Dosing

The appropriate dose of Peru balsam depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for Peru balsam. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

View References

REFERENCES:

Zhang, F. J., Yang, J. Y., Mou, Y. H., Sun, B. S., Ping, Y. F., Wang, J. M., Bian, X. W., and Wu, C. F. Inhibition of U-87 human glioblastoma cell proliferation and formyl peptide receptor function by oligomer procyanidins (F2) isolated from grape seeds. Chem Biol.Interact. 5-15-2009;179(2-3):419-429. View abstract.

Zhang, F. J., Yang, J. Y., Mou, Y. H., Sun, B. S., Wang, J. M., and Wu, C. F. Oligomer procyanidins from grape seeds induce a paraptosis-like programmed cell death in human glioblastoma U-87 cells. Pharm Biol. 2010;48(8):883-890. View abstract.

Zi, S. X., Ma, H. J., Li, Y., Liu, W., Yang, Q. Q., Zhao, G., and Lian, S. Oligomeric proanthocyanidins from grape seeds effectively inhibit ultraviolet-induced melanogenesis of human melanocytes in vitro. Int.J Mol.Med 2009;23(2):197-204. View abstract.

Zimmerli, B. and Dick, R. Ochratoxin A in table wine and grape-juice: occurrence and risk assessment. Food Addit.Contam 1996;13(6):655-668. View abstract.

Agarwal C, Sharma Y, Agarwal R. Anticarcinogenic effect of a polyphenolic fraction isolated from grape seeds in human prostate carcinoma DU145 cells: modulation of mitogenic signaling and cell-cycle regulators and induction of G1 arrest and apoptosis. Mol Carcinog 2000;28:129-38.. View abstract.

Avalos-Peralta P, García-Bravo B, Camacho FM. Sensitivity to Myroxylon pereirae resin (balsam of Peru). A study of 50 cases. Contact Dermatitis 2005;52(6):304-6. View abstract.

Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Title 21. Part 182 -- Substances Generally Recognized As Safe. Available at: https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/cdrh/cfdocs/cfcfr/CFRSearch.cfm?CFRPart=182

Tan S, Tam MM, Nixon RL. Allergic contact dermatitis to Myroxylon pereirae (Balsam of Peru) in papaw ointment causing cheilitis. Australas J Dermatol 2011;52(3):222-3. doi: 10.1111/j.1440-0960.2011.00772.x. View abstract.

Thyssen JP, Carlsen BC, Menné T, Johansen JD. Trends of contact allergy to fragrance mix I and Myroxylon pereirae among Danish eczema patients tested between 1985 and 2007. Contact Dermatitis 2008;59(4):238-44. doi: 10.1111/j.1600-0536.2008.01418.x. View abstract.

Turic P, Lipozencic J, Milavec-Puretic V, Kulisic SM. Contact allergy caused by fragrance mix and Myroxylon pereirae (balsam of Peru) - a retrospective study. Coll Antropol 2011;35(1):83-7. View abstract.

CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

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