tolu
/təˈluː
/ /ˈtəʊluː /(also tolu balsam)
noun [mass noun]
A fragrant brown balsam obtained from a South American tree, used in perfumery and medicine.
- This balsam is obtained mainly from Myroxylon balsamum, family Leguminosae.
- Taken internally, the balsam of tolu was described as a blood clarifier and systemic cleanser.
- The main constituents of tolu balsam are the benzyl- and cinnamyl esters of benzoic acid and cinnamic acid.
Origin
Late 17th century: named after Santiago de Tolú in Colombia, from where it was exported.