Tolu Balsam plant (Myroxylon balsamum)
Type : Live Plant
Size : 25Cm - 30Cm
The Tolu Balsam plant (Myroxylon balsamum) is a large evergreen tree native to the tropical rainforests of Central and South America. A plant of the moist to wet lowland tropics, it is found at elevations up to 700 meters. It thrives in areas where annual daytime temperatures range between 22–28°C, though it can tolerate temperatures between 16–32°C. When dormant, the plant can survive temperatures as low as -1°C. Tolu Balsam prefers a mean annual rainfall between 2,000–2,700 mm but can tolerate rainfall levels ranging from 1,350 mm to 4,000 mm. The tree grows best in a sunny position but can tolerate some shade and prefers well-drained soil. It is adaptable, succeeding even on poor soils as long as they are well-drained. Tolu Balsam also prefers mildly acidic soils, with an optimal pH range between 5.5 and 6.5, but can tolerate soils with a pH ranging from 5 to 8.
Known for its aromatic gum resin, the Tolu Balsam tree is highly valued in traditional medicine, perfumery, and various industrial applications. It can grow to impressive heights, often reaching between 10 to 20 meters, with some specimens soaring as high as 45 meters. The tree has large, leathery leaves and produces small, yellowish flowers. Its sturdy trunk can be over a meter in diameter, and the resin is harvested from the bark through careful incision or other traditional methods.
After 10 to 20 years of growth, the tree begins to produce resin, and older trees can yield up to 3 kg of resin annually. The resin, known for its sweet, balsamic fragrance, has a wide range of uses. It is commonly found in perfumes, particularly those with oriental and floral notes, and it has also been used as a flavoring agent in food and beverages.
In medicine, Tolu Balsam is prized for its therapeutic properties. The resin has been used for centuries in treating respiratory conditions like asthma and bronchitis, as well as coughs. It is also valued for its antiseptic, antibacterial, and antifungal qualities, making it useful in healing wounds and infections. In addition, it has been employed in traditional remedies for rheumatism and tuberculosis.
Ecologically, Tolu Balsam is beneficial to the environment. It helps fix nitrogen in the soil, enriching the surrounding area and promoting the growth of other vegetation. The tree also provides shade, making it an important component of agroforestry systems. Its dense canopy supports a variety of species, contributing to biodiversity in the rainforests.
However, the harvesting of Tolu Balsam resin must be managed sustainably to avoid overexploitation and ensure the long-term health of the tree populations. With proper care and regulation, this valuable tree can continue to provide ecological and economic benefits for generations to come.
