Systematization of the term "Balm/Balsam" used among drugs and cosmetics

The aim of the study. Data systematization of scientific sources, regulatory documents and search engines regarding the definition of Balms (Balsams) as medicinal and cosmetic remedies, their classification, formulation diversity and application. Materials and Methods. The data sources included the publications of domestic and foreign scientists, the State Register of Drugs of Ukraine, the Compendium reference book, mobile application tabletki.ua. Information and analytical research methods were used. Results. "Balsams" as plants raw materials, are a type of oleoresins containing solutions of diterpenes in benzoic and/or cinnamic acids and their esters, namely: balsam of Peru, balsam of Tolu, benzoin, storax. They have a long history of applications in medicine, aromatherapy and cosmetology. It was conducted an analysis of the nomenclature, composition of active ingredients and excipients, as well as the medical application of registered drugs in the dosage form of "Balm" and drugs for which the term "Balm" used in their trade name. We have proposed terms to define “Balms for oral application” and “Balms for cutaneous application”. The definition, expanded classification, formulation ingredients of cosmetic balms for various functional purposes are provided. Conclusions. Today in Ukraine there are no valid regulatory documents regulating the definition and quality control of both medicinal and cosmetic Balms (Balsames). However, on the pharmaceutical and, especially, on the cosmetic market, drugs and cosmetic products called Balsames (Balms) are widely represented. All medical and cosmetic Balms regardless of their functions contain complex of active plant ingredients and cause intense action on the skin, their appendages or whole body.