HERBAL MONOGRAPHS TOLU BALSAM / 765Resins (up to 80%)Volatile oilEFFECTS: TOLU BALSAM
The undiluted oil showed antibacterial and fungicidal effects
in the diffusion test. The drug also acts as an expectorant.
The effect on the respiratory tract appears to work in the
field of aromatherapy.
INDICATIONS AND USAGE
PERUVIAN BALSUM
Approved by Commission E:- Wounds and burns
- Hemorrhoids
External Use: for infected and poorly healing wounds, for
burns, decubitus ulcers, frostbite, leg ulcers, bruises caused
by prostheses and hemorrhoids.Unproven Uses: Although no longer used internally, it was
used previously for fevers, colds, coughs, bronchitis, inflam-
mation of the mouth and pharynx, and a tendency to
infection. External folk medicine uses are the treatment of
eczema and itching. Outdated uses include* treatment of
scabies; as a liniment for headaches, toothache and rheumat-
ic symptoms; and use of the resin for uterine and umbilical
venous bleeding.Homeopathic Uses: Indications in homeopathy include
chronic mucous membrane inflammation of the respiratory
and urinary organs.TOLU BALSAM
Approved by Commission E:- Cough
- Bronchitis
Tolu Balsam is used to treat inflammation of the mucous
membranes of the respiratory tract.Unproven Uses: Folk medicine externa] uses include the
approved indications above, as well as the treatment of
wounds.
PRECAUTIONS AND ADVERSE REACTIONS
PERUVIAN BALSAM
Peruvian balsam often causes contact allergies. Urticaria,
recurring aphthoid oral ulcers, Quincke's disease and diffuse
purpura can all occur, among other ailments (possibly also
following internal administration, for example, of foods
containing Peruvian Balsam). Photodermatoses and photo-
toxic reactions are possible without ingestion. Kidney
damage has been observed following internal as well as
external use of large dosages (such as albuminuria, pyelitis
and necroses of the canaliculus epithelia).
TOLU BALSAM
No health hazards or side effects are known in conjunction
with the proper administration of designated therapeutic
dosages. However, just as is the case with Peruvian Balsam,
allergic reactions are possible.
DOSAGE
PERUVIAN BALSAM
Mode of Administration: Galenic preparations for external
use.
How Supplied: Commercial pharmaceutical preparations
include ointments and suppositories.
Homeopathic Dosage: 5 drops. 1 tablet or 10 globules every
30 to 60 minutes (acute) or 1 to 3 times daily (chronic);
parenterally: 1 to 2 ml sc acute. 3 times daily; chronic: once
a day (HAB34).Daily Dosage: Galenic preparations containing 5 to 20%
Peruvian Balsam, for extensive surface application not more
than 10% Peruvian Balsam. Duration of application should
not exceed 1 week.
Storage: Store Peruvian Balsam in a container that seals
"tightly and prevents exposure to light.*
TOLU BALSAM
Mode of Administration: Various preparations of Tolu
Balsam are used internally.
Preparation: To prepare Tolu Balsam syrup, dissolve the
drug in 96% alcohol in a water bath with reflux; add 85%
glycerol and water, then warm the mixture. Let stand for a
week before adding saccharose. Prepare a 1000 ml tincture
with 200 g Tolu Balsam and 92.3% ethanol.
Daily Dosage: Average daily dosage is, 0.6 g of drug,
depending on the preparation.
Storage: Store protected from light in tightly sealed contain-
ers with a suitable drying agent. Do not store Tolu Balsam in
powder form.
LITERATURE
PERUVIAN BALSAM
Friedel HD, Dissertation Marburg. 1986.
Gharbo SA, Hussein FT, Nassra AA, UAR J Pharm Sci
11:170-173. 1970.
Glasl H, Wagner H, DAZ 114:45-47. 1974.
Lund K, Rimpler H, (1985) Dtsch Apoth Ztg 125(3): 105.
Rudski E, Grzywaz Z, (1977) Dermatologia 155(2): 115.
Further information in:
Hansel R, Keller K, Rimpler H, Schneider G (Hrsg.), Hagers
Handbuch der Pharmazeutischen Praxis. 5. Aufl., Bde 4-6
(Drogen), Springer Verlag Berlin. Heidelberg, New York, 1992-
1994.