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Abies fraseri She balsam Evergreen tree (1 Page of 5) The Abies fraseri plant species is found in Southeastern N. America - Virginia and West Virginia to North Carolina and Tennessee. It is a member of the Pinaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as She balsam. Some home gardeners know the variety as Pinus fraseri. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Abies fraseri Common Name: She balsam Family: Pinaceae Author: (Pursh.)Poir. Known Hazards: The oleoresin (Canada balsam) can cause dermatitis in some people[222]. Mature Height: 15 Mature Width: Habitat: Mountains, often forming forests of considerable extent at elevations of 1200 - 1800 metres[11, 82].
Medicinal Information: The following uses are for the closely related A. balsamea. Since this species also has blisters of resin in the bark[81], the uses quite probably also apply here.
The resin obtained from this tree (see 'Uses notes' below) has been used throughout the world and is a very effective antiseptic and healing agent. It is used as a healing and analgesic protective covering for burns, bruises, wounds and sores[213, 222, 226]. It is also used to treat sore nipples[213] and is said to be one of the best curatives for a sore throat[245].
The resin is also antiscorbutic, diuretic, stimulant and tonic[4, 171, 222]. It is used internally in propriety mixtures to treat coughs and diarrhoea, though taken in excess it is purgative[238].
A warm liquid of the gummy sap was drunk as a treatment for gonorrhoea[212].
A tea made from the leaves is antiscorbutic[4, 171]. It is used in the treatment of coughs, colds and fevers[222]. The leaves and young shoots are best harvested in the spring and dried for later use[238].
For further Abies fraseri gardening information click on one of the blue links below Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses
The information above has been supplied solely via the hard work and dedication of the team at 'Plants for a Future'. View their bibliography

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