COPAIBA
Copaifera officinalis

PROPERTIES/ACTIONS:
Anti-inflammatory, Antibacterial, Antimicrobial, Astringent, Disinfectant, Diuretic, Emollient, Expectorant, Laxative, Stimulant, Vulnerary

COMMON NAMES:
Copaiba, Copal, Balsam Copaiba, Jesuit's Balsam

PHYTOCHEMICALS Include:
Calamenene, Coipaiferic-acid, Copaene, Copaiferolic-acid, Copalic-acid, Cyperene, Delta-elemene, Gamma-cadinene, Maracaibobalsam, Paracopaibic-acid, Polyalthic-acid,

Copal or Copaiba has been used by native South Americans for hundreds of years. It's use was documented by European explorers as early as the 15th century. This clear yellow resin is painted on wounds to speed the healing process. Copaiba is widely used in Brazil as an effective treatment for coughs, colds and respiratory problems. It is also used in the treatment of chronic cystitis, bronchitis and diarrhea as well as a treatment for hemorrhoids.

Copaiba is believed to have diuretic, expectorant, disinfectant, and stimulant properties. The oil has been documented with antibacterial activity. It is non-toxic at traditional dosages, although in very large dosages it can cause diarrhea, vomiting and/or a rash.

It is often used in the United States as a scenting agent in perfumes, and is widely used in soaps, detergents, bubble baths, creams and lotions for its emollient and antibacterial properties. It is also used by dentists to coat dentinal tubules, which are exposed by drilling.

HERBAL DEFINITION:
Expectorant:
An herb which facilitates the removal of mucus secretions from the lungs.

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DISCLAIMER: This information is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be used to diagnose, prescribe or replace the advice of a qualified physician.