


The Bible records that in ancient times there came from Gilead, beyond the Jordan, a substance used to heal and soothe. It came from specific trees or shrubs, and was a major commodity of trade in the ancient world. It was known as the Balm of Gilead. That name became symbolic for the power to soothe and heal.
The Balm of Gilead refers to a plant which was a famous ingredient for incense, perfume, anointing for kings and priests, medicines, and ointments in the time of the Bible. Balm of Gilead (Genesis 37:25 – Jeremiah 8:22(“Is there no balm in Gilead?”) was made from the mastic & resin obtained from Populus trees and Pistachea Lentiscus a rare shrub. Its fame as a powerful healing balm spread throughout the Mediterranean region and then throughout the European Continent. It later made its way to America. It was widely used in ancient times and is still widely used today.
Balm of Gilead is made from resins of Balsam Poplar (Populus Balsamifea) and/or Black Poplar (Populus Nigra) trees. The resin-rich buds are processed to extract the medicinal resin. The sticky resin in the buds reminds one of pine gum. Just like pine gum it is hard to clean off of the hands. It was a valuable commodity of trade in ancient world. It now commonly refers to buds of the species of poplar (Populus) used to make the balm. The name Balm of Gilead is used today to represent the power to soothe and heal. It is used to signify a universal cure in figurative speech.
Benefits of the Balm of Gilead
Balm of Gilead is a high quality ointment with healing properties. Traditionally Poplar Bud Salve “Balm of Gilead” is used as a treatment for inflammation, superficial skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, sunburn, rashes, insect bites and chapped skin. Balm of Gilead is anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, analgesic, anti-rheumatic which means it is great for skin rashes, irritations, wounds, muscle aches and pains, burns and arthritis, and more. It is valuable as a simple wound healer.
The Europeans used noted Balsam Poplar to make Balm of Gilead. This was an ointment or salve that was beneficial for bruises, sprains, sunburn, achy muscles, dry skin, diaper rash, small skin abrasions, first-aid salve used to heal small wounds, cuts and scrapes. Salves and Balms are able to soothe even the worst chapped lips or diaper rash. Balms have a slightly higher beeswax content giving them a firmer thicker consistency that is able to keep its shape and hold in place. Balms may include body butter making them smoother with a little more hold than a salve.
In the times past, Balm of Gilead was used in first aid salves, to help with coughs and other respiratory ails, and to treat small knicks, burns, scrapes and much more. Many homes, farms and loggers had a jar or container of this Balm available for use as needed. North American indigenous tribes have long used Poplar buds (containing a resin known as “balm of Gilead”) for a variety of recovery needs, including those for muscles, joints, and skin.
Is there Any Scientific Evidence For This Balm?
In scientific journals, the Balm of Gilead is cited for its anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory properties. This incredible Balm has even shown promise in some studies to help destroy cancerous cells because of its “tumoricidal effects,” which is medical jargon indicatiing that the Balm of Gilead resins may help to destroy tumor cells and spare healthy ones. Among the many beneficial properties, this Balm has been found to contain natural Salicins which are related to todays synthetic Aspirin. These natural Salicins are responsible for some of the many properties this Balm displays. All these factors combine making this a great all-purpose balm for skin irritations and inflammation.
Traditionally Poplar Bud Salve “Balm of Gilead” is used for inflammation, superficial skin conditions such as psoriasis, eczema, sunburn, rashes, insect bites and chapped skin. Balm of Gilead is anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-rheumatic which means it is great for skin rashes, irritations, minor abrasions, muscle aches, pains, and burns. It is effective and valuable as a simple wound healer. Learn more about Balm of Gilead Plain by Clicking Here.
Our Balm of Gilead is made from the buds of the Black Poplar (Populus Nigra) tree which is found in the Mediterranean region. We import the fresh buds from this region because we feel they are the best. We then subject the buds to a proprietary process which extracts more of the beneficial saps and resins. The extracts are blended with pure Grapeseed Oil and pure unrefined Beeswax to make the plain Balm which is “Baby Safe”. We add some pure Essential Oils to make our “Plus” version of the Balm which has the added benefits of these Essential Oils. Learn more about Balm of Gilead Plus by Clicking Here.
Directions For Use:
Can be regularly used for dry skin, skin irritations and inflammation by applying and massaging into the affected areas. Apply to skin after the bath/shower and reapply regularly throughout the day as needed. This Balm is for external use only. It is heat sensitive. Store in a cool, dry place. If melting occurs, place it in the refrigerator to re-harden.
Precautions:
Do not use on open wounds or broken skin. For external use only. If you are pregnant, nursing or on any medications, check with a qualified healthcare professional before using any herbal or essential oil products. Avoid getting in eyes, nose, mouth or other sensitive areas. Do not use if you are allergic to aspirin, or have an aspirin or essential oil sensitivity. This information is for educational purposes and has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Once again: external Use ONLY; Do not use if you are allergic to aspirin or have an aspirin sensitivity.
Disclaimer:
Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. For educational purposes only. **PLEASE NOTE: Essential oils are concentrated plant extracts. Before using any new product containing essential oils, it is recommended to do a spot patch test to ensure there is no adverse reaction.
When using this product, the buyer/user acknowledges that he/she is using it on his/her own behalf and are aware of all ingredients and essential oils used. If pregnant/nursing, please consult your healthcare professional before using anything with essential oils. Visit our disclaimer page by clicking here. We recommend that you do your own study & research. Knowledge is power!