Balm of Gilead SEEDLINGS will be available soon

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 What is Balm of Gilead?

As referred to in North America, balm of Gilead is a deciduous hybrid tree from poplar and cottonwood. These trees are fast-growing and can reach a height of 100 feet at maturity. Their buds are often used in herbal medicine.

 The “balm of Gilead” is a high-quality ointment with healing properties.

The balm was made from resin taken from a flowering plant in the Middle East, although the exact species is unknown. It was also called the “balsam of Mecca.”

Myrrh is taken from a similar plant, Commiphora myrrha. The Bible uses the term “balm of Gilead” metaphorically as an example of something with healing or soothing powers.

Bees use the sticky resin of poplars as ‘bee glue’ to seal and protect their hives against intruders.

Mixing the resins they collect with waxy substances they excrete they form a substance known as ‘Propolis’, which is hailed as a marvellous healing substance with antiviral, antimicrobial and anti-fungal properties.

 Balm of Gilead is traditionally used as a soothing relief balm for comforting minor aches and pains of arthritis, tendonitis, over exertion, bursitis and many other painful skin conditions.

This Balm is also a comforting chest rub for colds and flu. As a skin care treatment, Balm of Gilead is used as a topical moisturizer and painkiller.

For conditions such as eczema, sunburn, the balm soothes irritation, inflammation, and pain while promoting healing.

The leaves and bark are used for urinary problems resulting from an enlarged prostate.

The bark is normally used to help fight rheumatism and other rheumatic conditions, as well as diarrhoea and cystitis.