Balsam, Riga

(rē′-). Syn. Carpa′thin a balsam ; Bal′samum carpath′icum , B. lib′ani , ., L.; Baume de Carpathes , Fr. A pellucid white fluid obtained by careful distillation from the young shoots of pi′nus cem′bra (Linn.) or Siberian stone-pine. It much resembles oil of juniper; and, like that article, is powerfully diuretic. It is regarded as vulnerary, and is highly esteemed by some in sprains and bruises. The bottoms of oil of juniper are commonly sold for it in the shops. The spirit distilled from pine-tops ( spiritus turionum pin i ) is also frequently, although incorrectly, called BIGA BALSAM .