Evidence supporting the use of: Balsam (unspecified)
For the body system: Sinuses
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Balsam, a term that can refer to various aromatic resins such as balsam of Peru, balsam of Tolu, or Canadian balsam, has a long history of traditional use for respiratory health, including support of the sinuses. In herbal and folk medicine, balsams have been used in inhalation preparations, salves, or topical applications to help soothe irritated mucous membranes and to clear nasal passages. The aromatic compounds in balsams are believed to have mild antiseptic and expectorant properties, which may help alleviate symptoms of sinus congestion. However, most of the evidence supporting these uses is based on traditional practices and anecdotal reports rather than rigorous scientific studies. There is limited clinical research specifically validating the efficacy of balsams for sinus support. Some studies have investigated related essential oils (such as eucalyptus or menthol) for nasal symptoms, but direct evidence for balsam itself remains sparse. Overall, balsam's use for the sinuses is primarily rooted in tradition, and while it is commonly found in over-the-counter remedies (like chest rubs), its effectiveness is not strongly substantiated by modern scientific research.
Other ingredients that support Sinuses
alpha-pinenebasil
bayberry
radish
bromelain
chamomile
turmeric
elderberry
fennel
garlic bulb
ginger
goldenseal
onion
horseradish
lactobacillus salivarius
lemon
licorice root
marshmallow
mint
spruce
oregano
peppermint oil
perilla
pineapple
plantain
platycodon root
purple butterbur root
quercetin
sage
schizonepeta
serratiopeptidase
thyme
vitamin C
water
xylitol
zhejiang fritillary
zinc
boneset
mullein
catnip
xanthium (cockleburs)
lobelia
capsicum
malabar nut
anise
tylophora
lingzhi
yarrow
fritillaria
lemongrass
yerba santa
elecampane
sodium salt
coltsfoot
sweet flag
eucalyptus
menthol oil
aster root
wood betony
horehound
herbal blend (proprietary)
cayenne pepper
Allicin
Asarum heterotropoides
Asarabacca
Arisaema
Asarum sieboldii
Bee Propolis
Betony
Baikal Skullcap
Boswellia
Butterbur
Bee products
Buddha's Hand
Balloon Flower
Carvacrol
Citrus
Cineole
Cajuput
Centipeda
Cubeb
Cowslip
Calamus
Cocklebur
European Elder
English Horsemint
Echinacea
Elder
Goldthread
Garlic
Other body systems supported by Balsam (unspecified)
BladderBronchials
Digestive System
Gastrointestinal Tract
Gums
Heart
Immune System
Joints
Kidneys
Liver
Lungs
Mucus Membranes
Respiratory System
Sinuses
Skin
Urinary System