A balm is a substance obtained from certain plants that is characterized by its aroma.
A balm is a substance obtained from some trees that is characterized by its aroma . It is a word that derives from the Greek balsamon , which was the name given to a tree whose resin had a pleasant aroma.
The balms, as soon as they come out of the tree , have an almost translucent hue and are liquid. When they come into contact with the atmosphere, they take on a darker color and thicken.
Plants from different family groups that contain this type of substance and medicines made with aromatic elements that are used as a remedy are also called balms.
Its characteristics
Generally a balm is composed of resin , ester , alcohol and acid . Depending on which substance predominates in its composition, its viscosity level and color change.
Its most common use is as a flavoring agent , although it is also used in certain rituals. In Ancient Egypt , for example , it was common for mummies to have balms added as part of the development of mummification. That is why the process is also known as embalming .
Balms are used as flavorings and for healing purposes.
Examples of balm
The balm of Judea , also called balm of Mecca , is one of the many existing balms. It is obtained from the Commiphora gileadensis plant , it has a yellowish color and stands out for its intense odor.
Within the cultural field it should be noted that there is a well-known balm. We are referring to the Fierabrás balm , mentioned numerous times by the character of Don Quixote in the novel of the same name written by Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra .
It was a balm capable of healing all types of wounds and ailments that has its origins in a legendary figure. We are referring to the knight of the Carolingian era Fierabrás, son of a Saracen king who converted to Christianity and who, according to legend, found a very powerful balm in Rome .
Legend indicates that this balm, which was used to carry out the embalming of the corpse of Jesus Christ , had miraculous properties.
Don Quixote mentions this concoction several times. In one of them he even states that he knows perfectly well how to make it; Thus, he tells his faithful squire Sancho Panza that it is prepared with rosemary, wine, salt and oil. Hence he asks him to make it to heal the wounds he has suffered in combat.
A palliative
It should be noted that the notion of balm is also used symbolically to name a relief, palliative or consolation .
“Getting a victory would be a balm for us”, “Physical pain will accompany you all your life, but with religion we can offer you a spiritual balm”y “Having discovered what happened to my father was a balm for me”son expresiones que reflejan esta acepción.