Dragon's Blood vs Balsam of Peru

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Dragon's Blood

Croton lechleri

Skin and Topical

Myroxylon balsamum

Skin and Topical

Dragon's Blood

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Balsam of Peru

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Amazonian tree producing a deep red latex used by indigenous communities throughout South America for wound healing and gastrointestinal conditions.

Central American balsam with strong vanilla-cinnamon aroma; used topically for wound healing and respiratory conditions; common allergen.

Active Compounds

taspine, proanthocyanidins, catechins, crofelemer, alkaloids

benzyl benzoate, benzyl cinnamate, cinnamein, vanillin, cinnamic acid

Traditional Uses

wound healing, diarrhea, skin conditions, oral ulcers, hemorrhoids

Wound healing, Respiratory conditions, Skin conditions, Antimicrobial

Modern Uses

wound healing, antidiarrheal, antiviral, skin repair

Wound healing properties, Antimicrobial activity, Expectorant effects

Adult Dosage

Topically as needed; 30 drops latex in water orally 3x daily

Topical application diluted; inhalation; avoid internal use

Contraindications

pregnancy, allergy to latex

Known balsam of Peru allergy, Pregnancy, Internal use

Side Effects

skin irritation, constipation with high oral doses

Allergic contact dermatitis common, Systemic eczema reaction

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E