What is Peru Balsam Essential Oil? Peru balsam, also known as the balsam of Peru, is an endemic species native to Central and South America. It is derived from the Myroxylon Balsamum. They are grown largely in El Salvador. It belongs to the family of Fabaceae. Balsam is a plant solvent or a resin used for multi-purposes. It has a sweet, balsamic, earthy, and vanilla aroma. It can blend well with black pepper, cardamom, Cedarwood, jasmine, lavender, orange, patchouli, peppermint, vetiver, sandalwood, and ylang-ylang. Peru balsam oil is extracted using solvent extraction and a Steam distillation process. The quality of oil is high in this method of oil extraction. This tree is grown naturally without any fertilizers. Extraction of Peru Balsam Essential Oil The balsam is extracted from the tree of Peru balsam by using the solvent extraction and steam distillation process. The resin of Peru balsam is collected from the trunks and barks of the tree. The resins make a V Shape inclusion on the barks and denote it is purified and matured. The collected resins are placed in the vat for extraction. Solvent extraction In the solvent extraction process of extracting ethanol and hexane is added to extract the oil from its resin. The solvent can be left to evaporate or removed to extract. It is also one of the popular methods of extracting this oil. Steam distillation In this method, steam is passed through the vat and cooled to extract oil. No solvent or pressure is given to extract like other methods of extraction. This traditional method is the alternate method of extracting this oil. Contemporary Uses of Peru Balsam Essential Oil The Spanish traders collected the Peru balsam from Central and South America and shipped it to Callao in Peru. The name Peru was acquired because of the shipping in Peru. From the olden era till now, It had many medicinal attributes. This Peru Balsam can be used in dishes, skincare, and hair care. Its medicinal properties help humans recover from deadly diseases and other health-related issues. It provides rich oxidants helping to build the immune system, strengthen bones, cure oral problems, etc. Peru Balsam essential oil is used in food manufacturing companies to promote good health benefits through food. It is an edible oil with multiple benefits. The acids present in this oil help in good digestion and a night of better sleep. Olden-era uses of Peru Balsam essential oil * It helps to strengthen the hair and scalp after applying and massaging it properly. * It lowers facial scars, acne and gives a glow.