Peru Balsam (Balsam of Peru)

Peru Balsam Essential Oil (Myroxylon balsamum var. pereirae)

Balsam of Peru, or Peru Balsam Essential Oil yields a earthy sap syrup used in the amazon for skin conditions, wounds, parasites and respiratory conditions ~

• Analgesic
• Anti-parasitic
• Anti-microbial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antiseptic
• Astringent
• Expectorant
• Promotes Epithelial Cell Growth
• Stimulant

Aromatic Scent: Creamy Notes of smoky liqueur & clove spice. Deeply Balsamic & Earthy, with leathery tones of Vanilla.

Dr Nick’s Notes

Balsam of Peru (BP) is extracted from the resin of the Myroxylon balsamum that grows wild in South & Central America. The tree was originally used by ancient Mayan and Aztec civilizations to treat wounds, parasitic worms, fevers, bronchitis, and colds. Today Peru Balsam Essential Oil is used as fragrance for cosmetic product flavoring in some packaged foods. BP is a beautiful ingredient for therapeutic formulas and botanical perfumes alike! (ie. see our Nurture blend)

Balsam of Peru Oil is emotionally calming and can assist in relieving stress - with the nerolidol content of this oil, this may be an ideal ingredient in other pain-relief salves OR anti-inflammatory formulas. The aromatic profile is quite precious, warming, earthy and rich syrupy, blends phenomenal with other woods, resins and saps!

How to Use

• Add small amounts (10 - 35 drops) to hygiene products such as soaps, shampoos, conditioners, etc. to enhance cleanliness and add a groundy, decadent aromatic experience.
• Dilute 2.5% - 5% into your favorite carrier oil (ie. jojoba or coconut oil) and apply to irritated skin, rashes, and minor wounds as an antiseptic and promote recovery.
• For usage in a home diffuser - often times should be blended with other thinner essential oils to prevent clogging of diffuser apparatus.
• Use in aromatherapy to calm an overstimulated mind.

Precautions

Maximum daily oral intake of 372 mg and maximum dermal use of .4% as described by Tisserand and Young.  Not suggested for internal usage by Essential Oil Wizardry.

Blends Well With: Amyris, Benzoin, Black Pepper, Cardamom, Cedar Atlas, Cinnamon, Clove, Copaiba, Frankincense Carterii (CO2), Balsam Fir Absolute, Ginger, Helichrysum, Lavender, Licorice Root (CO2), Mace, Michelia Alba (Magnolia), Patchouli, Palo Santo, Pink Lotus Absolute, Rose Absolute, Sandalwood, Tea Tree, Vanilla (CO2), Vetiver, Ylang Ylang,

Cultivation: Wildcrafted
Country of Origin: El Salvador
Extraction Method: Steam Distilled
Parts of Plant Used: Resin

Terpenes: Benzyl Benzoate, (E)-Benzyl Cinnamate, Benzoic Acid, (E)-Cinnamic Acid, (E)-Nerolidol, (E)-Methyl Cinnamate, Benzyl alcohol

~ Amazonian Grace ~

References

• The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual: The Complete Reference Book of Over 350 Aromatic Plant Extracts, Index of Biologically Active Phytochemicals, Clinical Index and Taxonomical Index (Volumes 1 and 2)
• Tisserand, R., Young, R., & Williamson, E. M. (2014). Essential oil safety: a guide for health care professionals (2nd ed.). Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone/Elsevier.

Last Updated March 3, 2026.

* The information provided on this page is intended for educational and informational purposes only and reflects historical, cultural, and experiential perspectives. This product has not been evaluated or approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Individual experiences may vary. Always use personal discernment and consult a qualified healthcare professional when appropriate, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition. *