Peru Balsam Essential Oil

Active Ingredient: cinnamic acid, vanillin

Botanical Name: Myroxylon balsamum

Plant Part: Crude Balsam

Extraction Method: Steam Distilled

Origin: El Salvador

Description:  The resinous balsam is derived from the trunk of a tree known as Myroxylon. These trees are large growing upwards of 40 meters and native to Central America.  Balsam resin, once dry, is scraped off and purified to make the essential oil.

Color: Brownish color liquid.

Common Uses: Peru Balsam Essential Oil is commonly used for minor cuts and scrapes owing to its antiseptic properties.  It has a very soft aroma, and adds a resinous note to a blend in perfumery. Peru Balsam Essential Oil is commonly used as a fixative and fragrance component in soaps, detergents, creams, lotions and perfumes.

Consistency: Thick

Note: Base

Strength of Aroma: Medium

Blends well with:  Ginger, Jasmine, Lavender, Patchouli, Pepper Black, Petitgrain, Rose, Sandalwood, Ylang Ylang

Aromatic Scent:  Vanilla undertones, with woody and balsamic tones.

History:  The name Peru Balsam Essential Oil is subject to debate since it was originally manufactured and shipped to Europe from the ports of Callao and Lima, in Peru, even though the species is not indigenous to Peru.  Nevertheless, it is a highly invasive species, and highly adaptive to the tropical climates where it is not native due to the absence of natural enemies.