Botanical Overview
Peru Balsam (Myroxylon balsamum) is a flowering plant in the Flacourtiaceae family. This plant has earned a place in traditional medicine through its consistent therapeutic benefits, recorded across multiple cultures. This species belongs to the Flacourtiaceae family, a group of flowering plants.
General Description
It is known by the common name Santos mahogany or Cabrueva. It is native to tropical forests from Southern Mexico through the Amazon regions of Peru and Brazil at elevations of 200–690 metres (660–2,260 ft). Plants are found growing in well drained soil in evergreen humid forest.
Family Context
The Flacourtiaceae family is widely distributed. Notable medicinal members include:
- True Chaulmoogra — 19 documented uses
- Hindi Chaulmoogra — 1 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Peru Balsam has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, and others.
Traditional Uses
Peru Balsam has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and skin and wound care, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Stomachic
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Respiratory conditions.
- Expectorant
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Catarrh
- Cold
- Pectoral
- Asthma
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Skin and wound care.
- Sore
- Wound
For skin conditions, the fresh or dried plant is applied topically as a poultice, wash, or compress. A strong decoction can be used to clean wounds and sores. The antimicrobial properties help prevent infection while promoting tissue repair.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Coumarin: aromatic compounds with anticoagulant and anti-inflammatory effects
- Alkaloid: nitrogenous compounds with diverse pharmacological activities