Peru Balsam — what it is and why people still use it

If you’ve smelled a vintage perfume, an old cough syrup, or a leather conditioner, you may have already come across Peru balsam. It’s a dark, sticky resin from the Myroxylon tree, used for centuries as a scent fixative, topical remedy, and ingredient in ointments. People turn to it for its warm, vanilla-like aroma and its traditional skin-soothing uses.

How people use Peru balsam

Peru balsam appears in three common forms: raw resin, tinctures or extracts, and as an ingredient in finished products like creams and cough lozenges. Topically, it’s found in wound-care balms and scar creams because of its warming and preservative qualities. In perfumery it keeps fragrances stable. In older cough medicines and lozenges you’ll find it used for flavor and a mild soothing effect on the throat.

If you’re making homemade products, keep in mind that the resin is concentrated. Most over-the-counter creams use it in small amounts. Always follow a product’s instructions rather than guessing a mixing ratio yourself.

Safety, allergies, and smart use

Peru balsam is a common cause of allergic contact dermatitis. If you’ve ever had itchy, red patches after using a cream or wearing a scented product, the balsam or related substances like benzyl benzoate could be the reason. Do a patch test: apply a tiny amount to an inner forearm and wait 24–48 hours to check for a reaction.

Avoid using Peru balsam on open, deep wounds or near the eyes. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or on medication, check with your healthcare provider before using products that contain it. It’s mainly for topical use; ingesting raw balsam is not advised unless a product is specifically made and labeled for internal use.

If you do react to Peru balsam, common alternatives in topical care include calendula, aloe vera, or products labeled hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. For scent needs in cosmetics, look for non-sensitizing fixatives or synthetic alternatives if you’re sensitive.

When buying, pick reputable sellers: pharmacies, certified herbal suppliers, or well-known aromatherapy shops. Check labels for the botanical name Myroxylon balsamum (sometimes listed as Myroxylon pereirae) and look for a certificate of analysis if you plan to use it in DIY formulations. Avoid vague listings that don’t show origin or purity.

Store resin or extracts in a cool, dark place to keep them stable. Keep containers tightly closed — balsam can darken and thicken with time but usually stays usable for a long while if stored properly.

Got a specific use in mind? Tell me whether you want it for skin care, fragrance, or a throat lozenge — I can point you to product types and safe concentration ranges or suggest alternatives if you’re allergy-prone.