Friars Balsam is a traditional home remedy for decongestant cold symptoms and antiseptic wound dressing. It is also used in steam preparations to thin mucus in the lungs and relieve asthma.
Aspects of sugary lemon, crunchy green apple and fatty apricot kernel stream through the head notes of this robust fragrance. A heart bouquet soon follows marked by spicy, potent thyme and rich, intense jasmine.
History
For centuries the term “balsam” has been used to describe a variety of mixtures of resins, essential oils and gums with reputed healing properties. A specific formulation called the Jerusalem Balsam was formulated in 1719 at the monastery of Saint Savior in old Jerusalem (Bagatti, 1946). A version of this formula containing four plants – olibanum (Boswellia spp.), myrrh (Commiphora spp.), aloe and mastic – has been referred to by various names including Turlington’s Balsam, the Jesuit’s Drops, St Victor’s Balsam, Persian Balsam, Swedish Balsam and Friars Balsam.
This remedy was widely known throughout Europe and was included in the British Pharmacopoeia of 1867 as Tincture Benzoini Composita. Its popularity was such that it was even named after the racehorse Friar’s Balsam (see the photo below).
He was ridden by Tom Cannon in the 2000 Guineas, and beaten into second place behind the winner Ayrshire. He was subsequently retired to stud and had some success as a sire of horses.
Uses
Friars Balsam or Compound Benzoin Tincture (also known as Gold Cross Friars Balsam) is a topical anaesthetic and antiseptic. It is commonly used to improve dressing adherence and to reduce skin irritation due to adhesives, particularly following surgery or wound care. It is derived from natural resins such as Styrax benzoin (benzoin resin), balsam of Tolu and Myroxylon balsamum (balsam of Peru) and storax (styrene-based compounds).
In the past, it was also used to protect the skin from stinging insects and as a home inhalant for respiratory disorders. It is a common ingredient in modern sports wraps and plasters because of its reputation for toughening the skin.
There are a few previous reports of contact allergy to tincture benzoin, including one case report of an anaesthetist developing an acute blistering reaction after spraying Friars Balsam onto the skin under a spinal anaesthetic during a spinal surgery. The patient had 1+ positive patch test reactions to oxidised linalool, fragrance mix I and cinnamic alcohol and isoeugenol, all of which are found in friars balsam.
Precautions
Friars Balsam (BP) is a traditional aromatic remedy with decongestant properties for the relief of cold symptoms and antiseptic wound care. It is a compound tincture containing several resinous and plant-based ingredients dissolved in an alcohol base.
It is a common ingredient in the first-aid kit, used for its antiseptic and protective properties on minor cuts and abrasions. In addition, it is a popular home inhalant for the relief of respiratory conditions such as coughs and congestion. It also acts as a skin toughener. In some clinical situations, Friars Balsam is applied to the skin under adhesive bandages to prevent allergy to the adhesive and improve dressing adherence.
The primary risk associated with Friars Balsam is that it can induce a skin reaction called allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). This is an immune-mediated hypersensitivity, in which the patient develops itching and a red eczematous rash that may appear papular or blistered within 24-72 hours of direct contact with the medication. Benzoin and the other balsams found in this preparation are potent contact allergens. In addition, sensitization to these substances can lead to cross-reactivity with similar fragrances, including Balsam of Peru and colophony, found in many cosmetic and topical products.
To reduce the risk of ACD, it is important to perform a patch test prior to use by applying a few drops on a discreet area of the skin and observing any reaction over the next 48-72 hours. Additionally, patients should avoid ingesting Friars Balsam, as this could result in nausea and vomiting.
Contraindications
The high alcohol content of Friars Balsam is dangerous if swallowed in large quantities and can cause alcohol poisoning. The resinous components of the plant are also toxic if ingested, and can lead to gastrointestinal distress and central nervous system depression. It may cause skin irritation in individuals with sensitive skin, and can irritate the respiratory tract when inhaled. Systemic absorption is possible if applied to large areas of broken or wounded skin, but this is uncommon.
Many patients who follow a traditional herbal regimen alongside modern homeopathic treatment report decreased reliance on, or cessation of, conventional pharmaceutical medications, accompanied by improved clinical outcomes.