Cottonwood Buds
Populus balsamifera , Populus trichocarpa , and related species
PLANT NAME
Cottonwood Buds
COMMON NAMES
Balm of Gilead, Balsam Poplar, Black Cottonwood
BOTANICAL NAME
Populus balsamifera, Populus trichocarpa, and related species
IDENTIFICATION
Deciduous trees with sticky, resinous, heavily scented leaf buds in late winter and early spring. Bark is smooth on young branches and furrowed on older trunks.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Resinous leaf buds (harvested before opening).
CULINARY USES
INFORMATION NOT RELIABLY ESTABLISHED. Extremely bitter and resinous; not typically used for food.
TRADITIONAL USES
Traditionally infused into oil (often called "Balm of Gilead") for topical use on bruises, minor wounds, burns, and sore muscles due to its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties (contains salicin). The tincture was also used traditionally as an expectorant for respiratory congestion.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Native to North America, often found in riparian zones and moist soils. Buds are harvested in late winter to early spring while tightly closed and highly resinous.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Always consult your doctor. Avoid if allergic to aspirin or salicylates. Should not be used in individuals with severe liver or kidney disease. Contact dermatitis can occur in sensitive individuals.