Origin. - A balsam obtained from Toluifera Pareirce (Royale) Baillon, a tree growing in Brazil and near the west coast of South America.

Description and Properties. - A liquid having a syrupy consistence, free from stringency or stickiness, of a brownish-black color in bulk, reddish brown and transparent in thin layers, of an agreeable, vanilla-like, somewhat smoky odor, and a bitter tase, leaving a persistent after-taste. On exposure to air it does not become hard. It is completely soluble in 5 parts of alcohol.

The drug contains, among other substances, benzoic and cinnamic acid, cinnamein about 60 per cent., and resin 32 per cent.

Dose. - 8-30 minims (0.5-1.84 Cc.) [15 grains (1 Gm.), U. S. P.].

Physiological Action. - Its physiological action is largely due to the aromatic acids, cinnamic, and benzoic acids contained. See Benzoin.

Therapeutics. - In various cutaneous disorders balsam of Peru is very efficient, being employed in pruritus vulva, eczema, scabies, ringworm, etc. It is remarkably efficacious as an application to cracked nipples, cracked lips, indolent sores, bed-sores, etc., and is also serviceable in certain diseased conditions of the nose and throat, such as atrophic rhinitis and tonsillar diphtheria.

As a stimulant expectorant the drug is efficient in chronic bronchitis, being regarded by some physicians as of great service in phthisis pulmonalis. - Like myrrh, balsam of Peru has been used to some extent as a stomachic carminative and tonic.

Administration. - It is best given in an emulsion or in glycerin.