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Abies balsamea Balsam fir Evergreen tree (1 Page of 5) The Abies balsamea plant species is found in Northeastern N. America - Newfoundland to Virginia, west to Alberta, Michegan and Ohio. It is a member of the Pinaceae family. Common gardeners may know the plant as Balsam fir. Some home gardeners know the variety as Pinus balsamea. Cultivation | Propagation | General Uses Medicinal | Edible Uses Latin Name: Abies balsamea Common Name: Balsam fir Family: Pinaceae Author: (L.)Mill. Known Hazards: The oleoresin (Canada balsam) can cause dermatitis in some people[222]. Mature Height: 15 Mature Width: 5 Habitat: Low swampy grounds where it is often the major component of forests[82]. Also found on well-drained hillsides[82].
Medicinal Information: The resin obtained from the balsam fir (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].
This plant was widely used medicinally by various North American Indian tribes[257]. The resin was used as an antiseptic healing agent applied externally to wounds, sores, bites etc., it was used as an inhalant to treat headaches and was also taken internally to treat colds, sore throats and various other complaints[257].
For further Abies balsamea 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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