The most notable health benefits of balsam of peru essential oil may include reduced inflammation, prevention of infection, wound healing, healthy respiratory system, skin care, dental health, and hemorrhoid treatment.
Balsam of Peru Essential Oil
This essential oil is derived from a resinous substance called Balsam of Peru, which comes from a tree in Central and South America that is scientifically known as Myroxylon balsamum. This is probably not the most widely known or used essential oil, as it is not globally exported on a level equivalent to more popular essential oils. However, it is very potent and has an impressive range of health benefits, as well as its limited role as a food flavoring agent in certain dishes. [1]
The smell of Balsam of Peru essential oil is something like vanilla and cinnamon, and perhaps a touch of clove. The oil is dark brown in color and has a very enjoyable smell. As with most essential oil, Balsam of Peru essential oil can be either diffused or topically applied, but the very enjoyable scent of this essential oil makes it a favorite for diffusion in aromatherapy mixtures. It blends well with many other types of oils.
The reason people go out of their way to get their hands on Balsam of Peru essential oil is that it has a diverse range of medicinal effects. This essential oil has antioxidant, antiseptic, antibacterial, stimulant, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and expectorant qualities, which means that it has a functional use in many different types of health situations for people around the world. [2]
Essential oils are used for aromatherapy. Photo Credit: Shutterstock
Benefits of Balsam of Peru Essential Oil
Let’s take a closer look at some of these impressive health benefits below.
May Prevent Chronic Diseases
This may not be the most powerful aspect of Balsam of Peru’s medicinal effects, but studies have shown that the oil can stimulate the immune system and helps eliminate free radicals throughout the body. This can help in preventing the development of chronic diseases. [3]
May Prevent Bacterial Infections
The active ingredients in Balsam of Peru essential oil have been connected with the elimination of germs and bacteria, cleansing areas that may be susceptible to invasion or infection. By topically applying this to the skin, it can form a protective layer for your body’s largest organ. This is also why Balsam of Peru essential oil is so widely used in the prevention/treatment of scabies, often caused by mites. Balsam of Peru essential oil is commonly considered anti-mite, as this is one of the most popular applications in its original countries. [4]
May Clear Respiratory Tract
If you suffer from any sort of respiratory affliction, the expectorant nature of Balsam of Peru essential oil may be precisely what you need. As a diffused form in aromatherapy, Balsam of Peru essential oil can stimulate the lungs to expel any and all collected phlegm, which also clears out congestion in the respiratory tracts. Phlegm and mucus catch germs and bacteria, allowing them to grow and become more serious. Balsam of Peru essential oil helps you get healthy and stay that way faster. [5]
May Reduce Anxiety and Stress
Balsam of Peru essential oil has long been turned to for relief from mental afflictions, particularly nerves, anxiety, and stress. A session of aromatherapy inhalation may allow Balsam of Peru essential oil to induce hormonal shifts and reduce the stress hormones in your system, thereby perhaps allowing you to calm down and giving your body a break from the exhausting state of stress. [6]
May Reduce Inflammation
The anti-inflammatory qualities of Balsam of Peru essential oil are numerous, ranging from the topical application at wounds or aching joints to internal results of its use in the form of lower blood pressure and increased heart health. The possibly anti-inflammatory nature of Balsam of Peru essential oil may, in fact, be its most versatile and essential trait. This is particularly important for people who suffer from hemorrhoids, as this is a popular curative approach to that uncomfortable condition. [7]
Possibly Diuretic in Nature
A substance that can help the body clear out toxins from the body is always a good thing, so the diuretic nature of Balsam of Peru essential oil is beloved by those who need to flush out toxins, waste, and excess water and fat from their bodies. By inducing urination, Balsam of Peru essential oil ensures that you are keeping your kidneys working hard and remaining healthy. [8]
May Aid in Hair Care
Balsam of Peru essential oil is often mixed with water and washed into the hair, where it may help to eliminate dead skin cells and cleanse the scalp, preventing the further development of dandruff. [9]
May Aid in Dental Care
Due to its pleasant aroma and taste, as well as its possibly antibacterial, astringent, and antiseptic qualities, Balsam of Peru essential oil is a popular ingredient in dental hygiene products, as it can help eliminate dangerous bacteria and infections from the teeth and gums. [10]
Word of Caution: Despite the wide range of use for this essential oil, Balsam of Peru essential oil is also one of the most allergenic substances that we know of. Many people can have negative reactions when exposed, which range from irritation to blisters, watery eyes, and general discomfort. Always speak to your medical professional before using Balsam of Peru essential oil and specifically ask if you can get a patch allergy test done first, to avoid any unpleasant aromatherapy experiences. [11]
