A balm is a versatile word with several meanings, generally related to soothing or healing:
- A soothing substance for external application: It’s often a thick, semisolid preparation (like an ointment or salve), typically made of waxes and oils, sometimes containing medicinal or fragrant ingredients. It is applied externally to soothe irritation, heal wounds, or moisturize the skin (e.g., lip balm, healing salve).
- An aromatic resin: An oily, fragrant, resinous substance that naturally exudes from certain plants or trees (like balsam), often used in perfumes or medicines.
- A source of comfort (metaphorical): Anything that comforts, soothes, or mitigates emotional pain or distress (e.g., “Her kind words were a balm to his soul”).
- A type of plant: It can refer to certain aromatic plants, especially those in the mint family, such as lemon balm.
indrajit biswas –
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