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A genus of leguminous trees of tropical America, the different species of which yield balsamic products, among which are balsam of Peru, and balsam of Tolu. The species were formerly referred to Myrospermum.

- Balsam of Peru, a reddish brown, syrupy balsam, obtained from a Central American tree ( Myroxylon Pereiræ and used as a stomachic and expectorant, and in the treatment of ulcers, etc. It was long supposed to be a product of Peru. -- Balsam of Tolu, a reddish or yellowish brown semisolid or solid balsam, obtained fro…

e Tolu, in New Granada. See Balsam of Tolu, under Balsam. Tolu tree (Bot.), a large tree (Myroxylon toluiferum), the wood of which is red in the center, and has an aromatic rose odor. It affords the balsam called tolu.