Balsam

Name:
Balsam
Detailed information:
A resinous mixture of varying composition obtained from several species of evergreen trees or shrubs. Contains oleoresins, terpenes, and usually cinnamic and benzoic acids. All types are soluble in organic liquids and insoluble in water. Some have a penetrating, pleasant odor. They are combustible and in general nontoxic. The best-known types are as follows:(1) Peru balsam, from Central America, is a thick, viscous liquid (d 1.15) containing vanillin. Used in flavoring, chocolate manufacturing, as an ingredient in expectorants and cough syrups, and as a fragrance in shampoos and hair conditioners. A mild allergen. Shipped in drums.(2) Tolu balsam, a plastic solid, is derived from a related tree in Colombia. Its uses are similar to Peru balsam. Source of tolu oil. Odorless.(3) Copaiba balsam from Brazil and Venezuela (d 0.94–0.99) is a viscous liquid used in varnishes and lacquers as an odor fixative and in manufacture of photographic paper. It is the source of copaiba oil.(4) Balm of Gilead is from a Middle Eastern shrub and is used in perfumery and medicine.(5) Canada balsam, from the North American balsam fir, is a liquid, d 0.98, used in microscopy, in fine lacquers, as a flavoring, and as a fragrance.(6) Benzoin resin (Benjamin gum).See Benzoin Resin.