BALM OF GILEAD

Latin Name: Populus candicans

Alternate Names: Poplar Buds, Balsam Poplar, Mecca Balsam, Gileadensis, Tacamahac

Family: SALICACEAE

Parts Used: Leaf buds.

Properties: Alterative, Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic, Bitter Tonic, Expectorant, Febrifuge, Vulnerary.

Internal Uses: Bronchitis, Cough, Laryngitis, Sore Throat, Tonsillitis

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules, Syrup.

Due to its salicin content, it is used for many of the same things that aspirin is used. 

Topical Uses: Abscess, Arthritis, Eczema, Psoriasis, Rheumatism

Topical Applications: Poultice or compress for arthritis, rheumatism, post-operative abscesses, eczema and psoriasis. Used in perfume, soap, and potpourri. 

Energetics: Bitter, Cold.

Chemical Constituents: Phenolic glycosides (salicin), populin, essential oil (arcurumene, bisabolene, cineole, farnesene) gallic acid, tannins.

Contraindications: Can reduce breast milk, so avoid if one wishes to continue nursing. Avoid if allergic to aspirin. 

Comments: The common name Balm of Gilead includes the species Populus gileadensis, Populus balsamifer, and Populus nigra, which are used interchangeably with Populus candicans.