Peru Balsam (Myroxylon balsamum) is a resinous essential oil with a sweet, vanillic aroma and a base note. Steam distillation from resin, it is a versatile blending oil that pairs well with Vanilla CO2, Sandalwood (Australian), Ylang Ylang (Complete). For topical use, keep dilution at or below 0.4%.
Aroma & character
Aroma
Traditional aromatherapy associations
Traditional associations only — not medical claims or evidence of efficacy.
Properties
| Perfumery note | Base |
| Aroma family | Resinous |
| Chemical family | Ester |
| Material type | Essential oil |
| Extraction | Steam distillation |
| Plant part | resin |
| Origin | El Salvador |
| Blending factor | 3 |
| Volatility index | 4 |
| Tenacity (hours) | 24.0 |
Safety & dilution
| Max topical dilution | 0.4% |
| Max facial dilution | 0.2% |
| Pregnancy | Not recommended |
| Nursing | Not recommended |
| Children | Not recommended for young children |
| Cats | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
| Dogs | Generally suitable when properly diluted |
Safety flags
For education only — not medical or veterinary advice. Essential oils are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always patch-test and consult a qualified professional before use during pregnancy, on children, with pets, or with a health condition.
Not sure how much to use? Try the free dilution calculator.
Blends well with
Frequently asked questions
What does Peru Balsam essential oil smell like?
Peru Balsam has a sweet, vanillic aroma, classed as a resinous oil with a base note.
What is the safe dilution for Peru Balsam?
For topical use, keep Peru Balsam at or below 0.4%, and 0.2% on facial skin. Always patch-test before wider use.
Is Peru Balsam safe to use during pregnancy?
Peru Balsam is not recommended during pregnancy. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before any use.
Is Peru Balsam safe to use around children?
Peru Balsam is not recommended for young children. Consult a professional before use.
Is Peru Balsam safe around pets?
For cats — generally lower-risk when well diluted and diffused sparingly; dogs — generally lower-risk when well diluted. Diffuse only in ventilated spaces and consult a veterinarian.
What does Peru Balsam blend well with?
Peru Balsam pairs well with Vanilla CO2, Sandalwood (Australian), Ylang Ylang (Complete), Patchouli, Frankincense (Carterii).