Balsam of Tolu
Botanical: Myrospermum Toluiferum
Family: N.O. Leguminosae
Synonyms---Balsamum Tolutanum. Tolutanischer Balsam. Balsamum Americanum
V-shaped cuts are made in the tree, and the liquid is received into calabash cups placed at an angle ... On arrival the balsam is soft and sticky, but exposure to the air makes it hard and brittle, more like resin, with a crystalline appearance ...
Medicinal Action and Uses---Stimulant and expectorant, much used as the basis of cough mixtures. The vapour from the balsam dissolved in ether when inhaled, is beneficial in chronic catarrh and other noninflammatory chest complaints. The best form is that of an emulsion, made by titurating the balsam with mucilage and loaf sugar, and adding water.
