Balsam Peru (Myroxylon balsamum) – Essential Oil

Peru Balsam grows in Central America, and northern and western South America, and is fairly common in tropical forests at 200–690 metre altitude. In Peru and Brazil, this tree is mostly associated with rivers where it grows in moist, iron and aluminum rich soil. 

Peru Balsam has been in use in the perfume and food industry for centuries. Well know for its sweet, resinous scent it has been a popular addition to toiletries, creams, lotions, baby powder and even chocolate. Balsam of Peru is obtained by using rags to soak up the resin after strips of bark are removed from the trunk of the tree. Then the rags are boiled, releasing the balsam to sink in the water. The balsam is an aromatic, dark-brown, viscous, oily fluid. 

How to use:

Peru Balsam is sometimes applied directly to the skin for infected and poorly healing wounds, burns, bedsores (decubitus ulcers), frostbite, leg ulcers caused by poor circulation, bruises, hemorrhoids, anal itchiness, diaper rash, skin irritated by rubbing or sweat, and bleeding.

This oil can also calm a cough due to a cold or bronchitis and is effective at calming the emotions and easing nervous tension. 

Blending tips:

• For chapped, irritated skin combine 8 drops of Peru Balsam, 4 drops of Lavender and 3 drops of Geranium to 30ml of Calendula infused oil and 20ml of Plantain infused oil or salve. Shake well and apply to affected area.
• For a cough due to a cold, combine 6 drops of Peru Balsam, 4 drops of Eucalyptus, 4 drops of Thyme and 6 drops of Ginger to 50ml of Sesame oil, shake well and apply to the chest, back and shoulders.

Cautions & contraindications:

It is important to do a patch test to check for an allergic reaction or sensitivity before using this oil on the body. Do not use on the chest while breast feeding.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.