Overview
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.
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.
Side Effects
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
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. 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
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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.
This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.