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Balm of Gilead
Populus candicans
Salicadeae
Citations
Names : Poplar buds, Balsam Poplar
Habitat : Cultivated in Europe & N. America.
Collection :
Part Used : Closed buds.
Constituents : o Phenolic glycosides; salicin, populin (benzoyl salicin)
and chrysin
o Volatile oil, the major constituent of which is a-caryophyllene, with
cineole, arcurcumene, bisabolene, farnesene, acetophenone and others.
o Miscellaneous; alkanes, resins, phenolic acids, gallic acid tannins
and other ubiquitous substances.
Actions : Stimulating expectorant, anti-microbial, vulnerary.
Indications : As it soothes, disinfects, and astringes the mucous
membranes, Balm of Gilead is an excellent remedy for sore throats,
coughs and laryngitis, and is in fact considered to be a specific for
laryngitis that is accompanied by loss of voice. It may be used in
chronic bronchitis. Externally it can be used to ease inflammations due
to rheumatism and arthritis, as well as for dry and scaly skin
conditions such as psoriasis and dry eczema.
Kings Dispensatory says that Poplar buds are reputed stimulant, tonic,
diuretic, and anti-scorbutic. A tincture has been beneficially employed
in affections of the chest, stomach, and kidneys and in rheumatism and
scurvy. With oil they form a useful external application in bruises,
swellings, wounds, some cutaneous diseases, rheumatic pains.
Combinations : Coltsfoot, Red Sage and White Horehound combine well with
it to enhance its actions on the respiratory system. Chickweed or
Calendula will aid its work topically, reducing any irritation that may
occur.
Preparations & Dosage : Infusion: pour one cup of boiling water onto
1 teaspoonful of the buds and leave to infuse for l0-l5 minutes. This
should be drunk three times a day or more often until effective (if you
can deal with the taste!).
Tincture: take l-2 ml of the tincture three times a day. Usually used as
a syrup to make more palatable.
The herbalist by David Hoffman, (c)1993 David Hoffman, Hopkins
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