In this article we will discuss about the Canada balsam and asafetida types of oleoresins.
Type # 1. Canada Balsam:
Botanical Name:
Abies balsamea
Family:
Pinaceae
1. This is an oleoresin, obtained from a coniferous plant (Abies balsamea).
2. On the bark of the stem, the resin collects in small amounts in elongated blisters.
3. The balsam is a yellowish or greenish substance.
4. It is universally used as a mounting medium for microscopic work.
5. It is also used as a cementing material for optical lenses.
6. Canada balsam is transparent in nature and has a high refractive index. Due to this quality, it results in a minimum dispersal of light.
7. From the medicinal point of view, Canada balsam is used as a stimulant, irritant and antiseptic.
8. In soaps and perfumes, it is used as a Fixative.
Type # 2. Asafetida (Hindi – Hing or Heeng):
Botanical Name:
Ferula assafoetida L. and F. narthex Boiss.
Family:
Umbelliferae or Apiaceae
1. It is a gum resin obtained mainly from the roots of F. assafoetida and F. narthex.
2. Plants of this perennial herb are found commonly in Iran and Afghanistan. In India, these two species are found in Punjab and Kashmir.
3. The cortex of the thick fleshy roots of these plants exudes a milky juice during the rainy season. The tips of the roots are cut off. The exuded resin collects on the root surface in the form of thick, gummy, grayish or reddish substance called ‘heeng’.
4. Due to the presence of sulphur compounds, heeng has a powerful but foul odour and bitter acrid taste.
5. It is widely used in vegetable curries, sauces, and other foodstuffs.
6. From the medicinal point of view, it is used in the treatment of cough, asthma , nervous afflictions, pneumonia, and bronchitis and whooping cough in children.
7. It helps in digestion and metabolism of food.