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balm

Scientific Name: Dicerandra

Family: Lamiaceae

Category: Dicot

Growth:

Duration:

Other Names:

       

Understanding "Balm": More Than Just a Lip Product

The term "balm" encompasses a wide range of products and even plants, often associated with soothing and restorative properties. From skincare to aromatherapy, "balm" can refer to various substances and applications.

What is a Balm?

  • Generally, a balm is an oily, fragrant, resinous substance, often of medicinal value, exuding from certain plants, especially tropical trees.
  • It can also be an aromatic preparation used as a healing ointment.
  • The term can also refer to plants, particularly aromatic plants of the mint family, such as lemon balm (Melissa officinalis).

Considerations for Pets:

  • While many balms contain natural ingredients, it's crucial to check the specific ingredients list of any balm product before applying it to yourself or allowing your pet to come into contact with it. Some ingredients may be harmful if ingested.
  • Some balms contain essential oils. The safety of essential oils for pets varies; some can be toxic if ingested or applied topically.

Considerations for Children:

  • Balm products, particularly lip balms, often contain appealing scents and flavors, which might entice children to ingest them. Ingestion of large quantities could be harmful.

Balm as a Plant: Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

  • Lemon balm is a chiefly Mediterranean perennial herb in the mint family.
  • It is grown for its lemon-scented foliage, which is used as a seasoning or for tea.

"Balm" in Products:

  • Lip Balms: A very common use, with a wide variety of infused balms using natural ingredients from Coconut and Pear to Mango Butter. Many lip balms contain moisturizing ingredients like shea butter and natural oils.
  • Skin Balms: Used for moisturizing and repairing dry, irritated skin, cuticles, and rough patches.
  • Muscle Balms: Used for sore muscle remedies.
  • Baby Balms: Designed for babies, often creamy, cloth diaper compatible and moisturizing, especially using shea butter, coconut oil and jojoba oil.
  • Hair Balm: Used to moisturize and manage hair.

Quirky Facts:

  • The term "balm" has been linked to the emotional and psychological effects of items beyond the botanical. As an example, classical music has been described as "a sweet balm for sorrows."
  • There is an ongoing debate in dermatology and psychology regarding lip balm "addiction."