Question

Canada balsam is an oleoresin obtained from
A. Abies balsamea
B. Impatiens balsamia
C. Pinus sp.
D. Helianthus annus

Answer 1

Hint:
Oleoresins are extracts which are composed of resins fatty or essential oils. These compounds are extracted by the process of evaporation of the solvents involved. The oleoresins can have an either natural or synthetic origin. The naturally occurring oleoresins are known as balsams.

Complete answer:
The Canada balsam also is known as the balsam fir gum is obtained from Abies balsamea which is endemic to Quebec in Canada. The Canada balsam is a turpentine which is a fluid obtained by the process of distillation. These are mainly used as solvents. It is a greenish or yellowish, transparent, viscous fluid with a characteristic odour. It possesses a bitter taste. This material on exposure to atmosphere or air, the fluid gets dried and hence forms a transparent mass. This material is used as a cementing material for mounting specimens.
Considering the other given options:
Impatiens balsamia is a plant which belongs to the family Balsamianacea. It is also known as garden balsam or rose balsam. And is endemic to the Indian subcontinent. The plant possesses various physiologically active compounds that are used in the treatment of snakebite and jaundice traditionally. The plant has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects.
Pinus sp. belongs to the family Pinaceae. These plants are gymnosperms since they don’t possess an ovary enclosing the ovules. The seeds produced by these plants are known as cones and they are used for baking and cooking purposes. The bark of this tree is edible and is a rich source of vitamins A and C.
Helianthus annus is also known as the common sunflower. The plant is cultivated as a crop for the production of edible oil and also its edible fruits. The flowers are also cultivated for ornamental purposes.
Thus from the given options, the most appropriate one is A.

Note:
Resins are water-insoluble plant products. It is used extensively as an adhesive material. The major component present in resins is terpenes. Generally, resins are non-toxic but can cause allergic reactions.