Balsam of Peru Myroxylon pereirae
Koehler's Medicinal-Plants 1887
- Common Names
- Balsam of Peru , Tolu Balsam
- Botanical Name
- Myroxylon pereirae
- Family
- FABACEAE
Medicinal Uses & Benefits of Balsam Of Peru
How to Use|
Side Effects |
Plant & Garden|
Aromatherapy Oil |
- Medicinal Uses: * Aromatherapy
* Eczema
- Properties: * Anti-inflammatory * Antifungal * AntiViral * Aromatic * Calm * Hypertensive * Mood * Stimulant * Warm
- Parts Used: oleoresin
- Constituents: cinnamaldehyde, benzaldehyde
How to Use: Balsam of Peru
Balsam of Peru, or Tolu is used mainly in aromatherapy and perfumery for its vanilla and cinnamon scent. More than just a pretty scent, this resinous oil is antiseptic and healing to the skin and has similar properties of other balsams (Balsam poplars). Historically, Peruvian balsams were used in cough syrups and to kill parasites, but today balsam is used almost exclusively in topical applications. 2
Preparation Methods & Dosage :Use the resinous oil for troubled skin by diluting in a 2 to 3 percent solution of carrier oil.
Balsam of Peru : Essential Oil Profile
Balsam oil has a very sweet, balsamic, rich, vanilla-like aroma.
Balsam of Peru Side Effects: Allergic reactions are possible, and it also may increase your sensitivity to sunlight. Whether taken internally or externally, large quantities of balsam of Tolu can damage the kidneys.
Plant Description
Balsam of Peru is taken from three closely related species of Myroxylon balsamum evergreen trees that grow in the tropical forests of South America. The oleoresin, or balsam is used as the base for botanical medicines and as a vanilla-cinnamon like base note and fixative in aromatherapy blends. The genus name Myroxlyon is taken from the Greek myron "myrrh" and xylon "wood". 1This beautiful, tall jungle trees are also known for their valuable , mahogany-like wood. The process of extraction produces three grades of a balsamic and aromatic resin.
History and Traditions & Folklore
Perivum balsam is not a native species of Peru, but was so named when it was shipped to 17th century Europe from Lima,Peru is a today exported mainly from El Salvador.
Works Cited- Deni Brown HSA Encyclopedia of Herbs & Their Uses, Pub. Dorling Kindersley (1995)
- Prescription for Herbal Healing (2002) Phyllis A. Balch
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