Flu B (Flu Bomb) Did you know.... Sweet gum balls, or the seed pods of the sweet gum tree, have several medicinal uses: Antiviral: The young green seeds contain shikimic acid, which is also used to make Tamiflu. A extract or tea from this can be used to prevent sickness or as a remedy for the flu. Antimicrobial: The resinous sap, called storax, has antimicrobial properties and can treat skin problems, coughs, and ulcers. It can also be used as a salve for wounds and skin irritations. Anti-inflammatory: Extracts from sweet gum trees have anti-inflammatory properties. Anticonvulsant: Extracts from sweet gum seeds have anticonvulsant effects, which may help treat epilepsy. Antioxidant: Extracts from sweet gum trees have antioxidant properties. Antihypertensive: Compounds found in sweet gum sap extracts can suppress hypertension. Fever reducer: Ten to a dozen drops of the sap extract before a meal can reduce fevers. Green sweet gum balls tincture can help kill viruses in your body.