Tolu Balsam

Tolu Balsam

 Origin: it is the balsamic resin obtained by incision from the trunks of Myroxylon balsamum

               F: Leguminosae

Active constituents:

1.   Resin esters (toluresinotannol combined with cinnamic and little benzoic acid.

2.   Esters of balsamic acids (7-8% benzyl benzoate and benzyl cinnamate).

3.   12-13% free cinnamic acid, 2-8% benzoic acid and vanillin.

Uses:

1.   Cough mixtures as

expectorant, bronchitis, catarrh of the respiratory tract.

2.   Antiseptic.

3.   Flavoring in medical syrups, chewing gum and perfumery.

Test for identity:

1.   Warm 0.5g powder with KMnO₄ give odour of benzaldehyde.

2.   Alcoholic solution with alcoholic solution of FeCl₃ green colour due to toluresinitannol.

3.   Sublimation test: give plate crystals  in benzoin and rods crystals in cinnamic.

Report

Test	Result
………………………………………….... ……………………………………………… ……………………………………………. ………………………………………………. ……………………………………………..	………………………………………….... ……………………………………………… ……………………………………………. …………………………………………….. ……………………………………………..