Latin Name: Populus candicans
Alternate Names: Poplar Buds, Balsam Poplar, Mecca Balsam, Gileadensis, Tacamahac
Family: SALICACEAE
Parts Used: Leaf buds.
Properties: Alterative, Analgesic, Anti-inflammatory, Antiseptic, Bitter Tonic, Expectorant, Febrifuge, Vulnerary.
Internal Uses: Bronchitis, Cough, Laryngitis, Sore Throat, Tonsillitis
Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules, Syrup.
Due to its salicin content, it is used for many of the same things that aspirin is used.
Topical Uses: Abscess, Arthritis, Eczema, Psoriasis, Rheumatism
Topical Applications: Poultice or compress for arthritis, rheumatism, post-operative abscesses, eczema and psoriasis. Used in perfume, soap, and potpourri.
Energetics: Bitter, Cold.
Chemical Constituents: Phenolic glycosides (salicin), populin, essential oil (arcurumene, bisabolene, cineole, farnesene) gallic acid, tannins.
Contraindications: Can reduce breast milk, so avoid if one wishes to continue nursing. Avoid if allergic to aspirin.
Comments: The common name Balm of Gilead includes the species Populus gileadensis, Populus balsamifer, and Populus nigra, which are used interchangeably with Populus candicans.