Balm

(băm), n. [Pr. balme, Fr. baume, O. Fr. bausme, basme, O. Eng. baume, baume, from Lat. balsamum, Gr. βάλσαμον, balsam, q. v.]

1. (Bot.) An aromatic plant of the genus Melissa.
2. The resinous and odoriferous or aromatic sap or juice of certain trees. Dryden.
3. Any fragrant or valuable ointment. Shak.
4. Any thing which heals, or which soothes or mitigates pain. “Balm for each ill.” Hemans.

Balm of Gilead, a plant of the terebinthine family (Balsamodendron Gileadense). Its leaves yield, when bruised, a strong aromatic scent; and from this plant is obtained the balm of Gilead of the shops, or balsam of Mecca. This has a yellowish or greenish color, a warm, bitterish, aromatic taste, and a fragrant smell. It is valued as an unguent and cosmetic by the Turks.