1. An ointment made from resin exuded by a small tree, Balm of Gilead (Commiphora opobalsamum, family Burseraceae), a close relative of C. myrrha, the source of myrrh.
2. (lemon balm) A perennial herb, Melissa officinalis, related to the mints (family Lamiaceae), with leaves that have a lemon scent and are used as a flavouring; it yields oils with traditional medical uses.