Merriam-Webster Collegiate Dictionary - balm of gilead

 Etymology: Gilead, region of ancient Palestine known for its balm  Date: 1629  1. an agency that soothes, relieves, or heals  2. a small evergreen African and Asian tree (Commiphora opobalsamum syn. C. meccanensis of the family Burseraceae) with aromatic leaves; also a fragrant oleoresin from this tree  3. any of several poplars having resinous buds: as  a. a hybrid North American tree (Populus gileadensis) with broadly cordate leaves that are pubescent especially on the underside  b. balsam poplar