Peru Balsam

Latin name Myroxylon balsamum var pererirae
Family species Fabaceae (Leguminosae)

Alternative names include Toluifera Pereira, Myrosperum Pereira, Myroxylon Pereirae, Peruvian Balsam, Indian Balsam, and Black Balsam. Not to be confused with Tolu Balsam.

Oil Selection Guide

Color - Pale amber to brown
Viscosity - Viscous
Scent - Rich, balsamy, sweet, like vanilla
Perfume Aroma - Base note

Oil Source Information

Plant Type - Tree
Part Used - Balsam
Countries of Origin - San Salvador
Extraction Method - High vacuum dry distillation

Known Chemical Constituents

Benzoic acid, cinnamic acid, benzyl benzoate, benzyl cinnamate, cinnamyl cinnamate

Uses of Peru Balsam

Used in some aromatherapy applications.

Peru Balsam blends well with

Special Precautions*

Peru Balsam can cause skin irritation and should not be used in massage.
* See Safety and Usage.

References and Resources

See References and Resources page.

Studies Involving Peru Balsam

Brazilian phytopharmaceuticals–evaluation against hospital bacteria.(hexane extracts)

Núcleo de Pesquisas de Produtos Naturais, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.

Systemic contact eczema against Balsam of Peru

Klinik und Poliklinik für Dermatologie und Allergologie, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München.