Balsam of Peru (BOP) is a resinous substance derived from the bark of the Myroxylon pereirae tree, a species native to Central America. This naturally derived material is used globally by various industries due to its aromatic qualities and fixative properties. For consumers, the primary reason to be aware of this ingredient is its classification as a common sensitizer, frequently causing allergic contact dermatitis in sensitive individuals. Identifying the wide range of products containing this substance is the first step in effective avoidance.
Understanding Balsam of Peru
Balsam of Peru is a thick, dark-brown liquid resin harvested from the trunk of the Myroxylon pereirae tree, predominantly in El Salvador. Despite its name, the substance was historically shipped through the port of Callao in Peru, which led to the geographical misnomer.
Its composition is complex, with a significant portion, about 60 to 70%, consisting of an oily liquid called cinnamein. The remaining material is a mix of resins and various compounds that give the balsam its characteristic scent. Key components include cinnamates, benzoates, and vanillin, which contribute to its warm, vanilla-cinnamon aroma. Today, it is widely used as a fragrance fixative in perfumery and as a flavoring agent in foods and drinks.
Personal Care Products and Cosmetics
The aromatic qualities of Balsam of Peru make it a frequent addition to personal care products, where it functions as a scent or a scent stabilizer. This category represents a major source of external allergic exposure for many people.
Scented items often utilize BOP to prolong the longevity of their fragrance profile. In daily hygiene products, BOP may be found in various soaps, body washes, and deodorants. Its presence is also noted in hair care items, including some shampoos and conditioners, contributing to the overall product aroma.
Numerous skin applications contain the balsam, such as body lotions, moisturizing creams, and sunscreens, where it is used for both fragrance and as a mild antiseptic. Specific cosmetic items, especially those applied to the face and lips, can also contain this resin or its derivatives.
Common Personal Care Products
- Perfumes, colognes, and after-shave lotions
- Soaps, body washes, and deodorants
- Shampoos and conditioners
- Lipsticks, flavored lip glosses, and certain makeup foundations
Foods, Flavorings, and Beverages
Balsam of Peru is frequently added to food products for its pleasant, complex flavor profile, which can often be labeled vaguely as “natural flavor.” This practice makes it an invisible source of allergen exposure that can lead to systemic allergic reactions upon ingestion in sensitized individuals. The chemical similarity of BOP components to familiar spices means it is often used to enhance or mimic those tastes.
Products like baked goods, candies, chewing gum, and chocolate are common items where BOP acts as a flavoring agent. Beverages such as cola drinks, certain liqueurs, and vermouth also frequently incorporate its flavor compounds.
Many spices share chemical components with BOP, including cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and vanilla, making them potential cross-reactors. The components of BOP are also naturally present in foods like tomatoes and citrus fruits, which can trigger reactions in highly sensitive individuals. Because food labels may only list “spices” or “natural flavors,” identifying the presence of BOP requires careful attention and often a low-balsam avoidance diet.
Medical and Oral Hygiene Items
Balsam of Peru has been historically used in medical applications for its antiseptic and mild healing properties. Topical ointments designed for wounds, burns, or skin irritations may contain BOP for its mild antimicrobial action. A notable source of exposure is in the treatment of hemorrhoids, where BOP is sometimes included in suppositories and specialized creams.
In oral hygiene, certain toothpastes and mouthwashes may use the balsam for flavoring or its subtle antiseptic effects. It is also found in some cough syrups and throat lozenges, where it is included as an expectorant or for flavor.
Dental professionals have also utilized BOP derivatives, such as eugenol, in preparations like dental cement and treatments for dry sockets. Over-the-counter products, including tincture of benzoin, calamine lotion, and certain surgical dressings, may also contain the substance.
Deciphering Labels and Alternative Names
Effective avoidance of Balsam of Peru requires recognizing its many names and chemically related substances on product labels. On ingredient lists, the balsam itself is sometimes listed by its Latin name, Myroxylon pereirae, or as Peruvian balsam or Balsamum Peruvianum. It can also be hidden under umbrella terms, especially in the fragrance and flavor industries.
The term “fragrance” or “parfum” on cosmetic labels is a frequent indicator that BOP or a chemically similar substance may be present. A person with a BOP allergy may also experience cross-reactivity, meaning they react to substances with a similar molecular structure.
Avoiding items containing vanilla, cinnamon, and clove is often advised, as they share common chemical subgroups like eugenol and cinnamates. Understanding these alternative names provides the necessary toolset for a targeted avoidance strategy.
Constituent Chemicals and Related Substances
- Cinnamic acid, cinnamyl cinnamate, benzyl benzoate, and vanillin
- Benzoin and Balsam Tolu
- Essential oils like Clove Oil or Cinnamon Oil