Friars Balsam 25ml
Friars Balsam 25ml is a traditional compound benzoin tincture used for steam inhalation to relieve nasal congestion, as a skin tincture for minor cuts and chapping, and as an adhesive prep before applying dressings. A long-standing pharmacy staple available in Australia and shipped internationally.
What is Friars Balsam 25ml?
Friars Balsam is a traditional compound benzoin tincture - a brown aromatic resin solution that has been used for over 200 years as a steam inhalation, skin tincture and adhesive primer. The 25ml dropper bottle is the standard household and pharmacy size. The product remains a loyal staple in Australian, Irish, British and European households even as more modern alternatives appear.
Three traditional uses
1. Steam inhalation for colds and flu
Add 5-10 drops of Friars Balsam to a bowl of hot (not boiling) water. Lean over with a towel draped over your head to capture the steam. Inhale deeply for 5-10 minutes with eyes closed. The benzoin vapour helps clear nasal congestion, soothe irritated airways and provide comforting relief during cold and flu. Repeat 2-3 times daily.
2. Skin tincture for cuts and chapped skin
Apply a small amount with a cotton bud to minor cuts, abrasions or chapped skin. The tincture forms a protective film as it dries, helping to seal small wounds and prevent infection. The traditional astringent and antiseptic action has stood the test of time.
3. Adhesive primer for dressings and tape
Apply Friars Balsam to the skin and allow to dry completely BEFORE applying tape, dressings or athletic strapping. The resinous residue gives the adhesive far better grip, especially in sweaty or oily skin. Standard practice in physiotherapy, sports medicine and pre-surgical site preparation.
Active ingredients
- Compound benzoin tincture (benzoin, storax, balsam of Tolu, aloes in alcohol).
- Brown aromatic liquid - characteristic resinous scent.
- Apply sparingly - a little goes a long way.
Warnings and precautions
- For external use only - do not swallow.
- Highly flammable - keep away from open flame.
- Avoid contact with eyes; rinse with water if contact occurs.
- Stains fabric, towels, bowls and skin - use dark towels and an old bowl for steam inhalation.
- Steam inhalation: never use boiling water and supervise children. Risk of scalding burns if the bowl tips.
- If skin irritation develops, discontinue use.
Related products
- For cold and flu relief see our cold and flu first aid guide.
- Senega & Ammonia 200ml - traditional cough expectorant.
- First aid kits - complete kit stocking.
Frequently asked questions
What is Friars Balsam used for?
Friars Balsam is traditionally used three ways: (1) added to a bowl of hot water for steam inhalation to relieve cold and flu nasal congestion; (2) applied to minor cuts, abrasions and chapped skin as a protective tincture; (3) used as a skin adhesive primer before applying dressings or tape, making them stick better and last longer. The active ingredients include benzoin, storax and balsam of Tolu.
Is Friars Balsam still available in Australia and Ireland?
Yes. Friars Balsam remains widely available in Australian pharmacies and is shipped from Australian suppliers to Ireland, the UK and Europe. Many users specifically seek out Friars Balsam after struggling to find it locally - the compound is a long-standing traditional remedy with a loyal following across multiple generations.
How do you use Friars Balsam for steam inhalation?
Add 5-10 drops of Friars Balsam to a bowl of hot (not boiling) water. Lean over the bowl with a towel draped over the head to trap the steam. Inhale slowly and deeply for 5-10 minutes, eyes closed. The benzoin vapour helps clear nasal congestion and soothe irritated airways. Repeat 2-3 times daily during cold and flu.
Can you put Friars Balsam directly on skin?
Yes - in small amounts to minor cuts, abrasions or chapped skin to form a protective film and aid healing. Apply with a cotton bud, allow to dry, then cover with a dressing if needed. Some users apply Friars Balsam to the skin BEFORE applying tape or dressings to help them stick better - this is the long-standing tincture-of-benzoin adhesive primer use.
Sources: healthdirect.gov.au — Colds, healthdirect.gov.au — Cuts and scrapes.
