Balsam, particularly in the form of balsam of Peru or balsam of Tolu, has a long history of traditional use as a remedy for respiratory tract ailments, including laryngitis. In folk and herbal medicine, balsam resins have been incorporated into syrups, lozenges, and inhalations intended to soothe sore throats, reduce hoarseness, and ease coughing. The rationale behind its use is largely attributed to its aromatic, expectorant, and mild antiseptic properties, which are thought to help thin mucus and provide topical relief to inflamed mucous membranes.

However, the scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of balsam for laryngitis is limited. There are no robust clinical trials or systematic reviews that confirm its effectiveness for this specific condition. Most references to its use are based on ethnobotanical records, historical pharmacopeias, and anecdotal reports rather than controlled research. Some in vitro studies suggest that certain balsams may exhibit mild antimicrobial or anti-inflammatory activity, but these findings have not been translated into clinical recommendations for laryngitis. Thus, while balsam’s use in laryngitis is well-established in traditional medicine, its support from scientific research is weak to moderate at best.