Contents
Uses
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In northwest Amazonia, Copaifera Officinalis resin is used topically by indigenous tribes as a wound healer, to stop bleeding, for skin sores and psoriasis, and to treat gonorrhea. It is also used for skin disorders and insect bites, and to cool inflammation.
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In herbal medicine systems the resin is used as a strong antiseptic and expectorant for the respiratory tract (including bronchitis and sinusitis), as an anti-inflammatory and antiseptic for the urinary tract (for cystitis, bladder, and kidney infections), as a topical anti-inflammatory agent for all types of skin problems.
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Copaifera Officinalis resin is sold in gel capsules in stores and pharmacies in Brazil and recommended for all types of internal inflammation, stomach ulcers and cancer.
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In Peruvian traditional medicine, three or four drops of the resin are mixed with a spoonful of honey and taken as a natural sore throat remedy. It is also employed in Peruvian herbal medicine systems to reduce inflammation and increase urination, and in the treatment of incontinence, urinary problems, stomach ulcers, syphilis, tetanus, bronchitis, catarrh, herpes, pleurisy, tuberculosis, hemorrhages, and leishmaniasis (applied as a plaster).
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The Encyclopedia of Common Natural Ingredients cites that Copaifera Officinalis has diuretic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, disinfectant, and stimulant activitie
Benefits
- Relieves pain
- Reduces inflammation
- Kills germs, bacteria and fungi
- Dries secretions
- Heals wounds
- Protects gastric tract
- Soothes and softens
- Suppresses coughs
- Disinfects
Cautions
- Please consult your doctor for dosage.
Interactions
Moderate Interaction Be cautious with this combination
- Lithium interacts with Copaifera Officinalis
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.
Other Names
Copaiba, copaipera, cupayba, copauba, copal, balsam copaiba, copaiva, copaiba-verdadeira, Jesuit’s balsam, copaibeura-de-Minas, cobeni, Matidisguate, matisihuati, mal-dos-sete-dias, aceite de palo, pau-de-oleo, básamo de copayba
References
Source: Rain Tree, http://www.rain-tree.com/copaiba.htm#.VaTywCmlKRM