Uses & Effectiveness
Overview
Storax is an oily resin (balsam) obtained from the tree trunks of Liquidambar orientalis or Liquidambar styraciflua. It is used as medicine.
Storax is obtained by scoring the bark of the tree. The damage causes the wood and inner bark to produce storax. The inner bark is boiled in water and then pressed in cold water to obtain the storax.
People take storax for cancer, coughs, colds, stomach pain, diarrhea, epilepsy, sore throats, bronchitis, and parasitic infections.
Storax is sometimes applied directly to the skin to protect or treat wounds, or to treat ulcers, skin infections, eczema, and scabies. Storax is an ingredient in Compound Benzoin Tincture.
As an inhalant, storax is placed in a vaporizer and used to treat coughs and bronchitis.
In foods, storax is used as a flavoring or fixative.
In manufacturing, storax is used as a fragrance or fixative in soaps and perfumes. Storax is also used to kill bugs (as a fumigant). It is also used for preparing slides for examination under a microscope.
One interesting fact about vitamin K is that it plays a key role in blood clotting, which is why it is sometimes referred to as the coagulation vitamin. Without sufficient vitamin K, our blood wouldn’t be able to clot properly, leading to excessive bleeding and potential health complications.
Side Effects
Storax is safe when used in food amounts and seems to be safe for most people when used appropriately in medicinal amounts. Moderate amounts of storax can cause some side effects such as diarrhea and rash.
Do not take large amounts by mouth or apply large amounts to open wounds. This can cause serious side effects including kidney damage.
Interactions
We currently have no information for STORAX overview.
Special Precautionsand Warnings
Storax is safe when used in food amounts and seems to be safe for most people when used appropriately in medicinal amounts. Moderate amounts of storax can cause some side effects such as diarrhea and rash.
Do not take large amounts by mouth or apply large amounts to open wounds. This can cause serious side effects including kidney damage. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of storax during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Dosing
The appropriate dose of storax depends on several factors such as the user’s age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for storax. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.
