Botanical Overview
Copaifera langsdorffii belongs to the Fabaceae family and is native to South America, particularly the Amazon rainforest region in Brazil. The plant is primarily valued for its oleoresin, commonly known as Copaiba balsam or resin, which is harvested from the tree trunks. Traditional common names include Copaiba and Copaiba balsam.
Energetics
The resin is considered energetically neutral in terms of temperature and moisture but has a bitter and acrid taste profile. It is generally regarded as relaxing in tonicity, with no specific directional energetics or qi/blood/fluid affinities well documented.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antimicrobial
- Demulcent
- Diuretic
- Expectorant
- Healing
Indications
Western
- Inflammation
- Urinary tract infections
- Bronchitis and respiratory congestion
- Skin infections and wounds
- Cough
Syndromes
- Urinary inflammation
- Respiratory congestion
- Cutaneous inflammation
TCM
No well-documented traditional Chinese medicine uses or syndromes reported.
Ayurveda
No well-documented Ayurvedic uses or syndromes available.
Unani
No traditional Unani uses or syndromes identified.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The resin contains various phytochemicals including sesquiterpenes, diterpenes such as kaurenoic acid, and balsamic oils characteristic of Copaifera species, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Oral oleoresin resin: 0.2 to 0.6 mL per day
- Topical application of resin or essential oil
- Inhalation of essential oil for respiratory support
Safety & Contraindications
Copaiba resin is generally safe when used topically and in traditional oral doses. Large oral doses may cause gastrointestinal upset. Due to limited safety data, use during pregnancy is contraindicated. Allergies to Copaifera species should be considered prior to use.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable or traditionally grounded planetary or elemental rulers have been identified for Copaifera langsdorffii.
Selected References
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants: Copaiba Balsam (2009)
- Rodrigues et al., Chemical Composition and Biological Activities of Copaiba Oil-Resin (2007)
- Silva et al., Medicinal Properties of Copaiba (2018)