Copaiba Balsam

• Overview
• Uses
• Side Effects
• Precautions
• Interactions
• Dosing

Copaiba balsam is a sap-like substance (oleoresin) collected from the trunk of trees that belong to the Copaifera species. Copaiba balsam is processed to make copaiba oil. Both copaiba balsam and copaiba oil are used to make medicine.

People take copaiba balsam for treating bronchitis, hemorrhoids, constipation, diarrhea, and bladder infections and other urinary tract infections (UTIs). They also take it as a stimulant.

In foods and beverages, copaiba balsam is used as an ingredient.

In manufacturing, copaiba balsam and copaiba oil are used in soaps, cosmetics, and perfumes.

In pharmaceutical preparations, both copaiba balsam and copaiba oil are used in cough medicines and diuretics.

How does it work?

Chemicals in copaiba balsam and copaiba oil might help kill germs. Other chemicals in copaiba balsam might decrease swelling (inflammation), increase the production of urine (act as a diuretic), and help loosen chest congestion (act as an expectorant).

Insufficient Evidence to Rate Effectiveness for...

• Hemorrhoids.
• Diarrhea.
• Urinary tract infections (UTIs).
• Constipation.
• Bronchitis.
• Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of copaiba balsam for these uses.

Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database rates effectiveness based on scientific evidence according to the following scale: Effective, Likely Effective, Possibly Effective, Possibly Ineffective, Likely Ineffective, and Insufficient Evidence to Rate (detailed description of each of the ratings).

Copaiba balsam is safe for most people in normal food amounts. However, it seems UNSAFE for use as a medicine. Copaiba balsam can cause side effects such as stomach pains, vomiting, diarrhea, rash, tremor, groin pain, and sleeplessness (insomnia). When used on the skin, it can cause redness, itching, and a rash that might leave brown spots after healing.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Copaiba balsam is safe when eaten as food, but it seems UNSAFE in medicinal amounts, which are typically higher. Stick with normal food amounts if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.

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LithiumInteraction Rating: Moderate Be cautious with this combination.Talk with your health provider.

Copaiba balsam might have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic." Taking copaiba balsam might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium. This could increase how much lithium is in the body and result in serious side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider before using this product if you are taking lithium. Your lithium dose might need to be changed.

The appropriate dose of copaiba balsam depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for copaiba balsam. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.