Balsam is a natural aromatic substance originating primarily from various plant species. This exudate has been valued across diverse cultures and industries for centuries.
What Defines Balsam
Balsam is a resinous exudate that forms on certain trees and shrubs, either spontaneously or through incisions made in the plant. It constitutes a solution of plant-specific resins dissolved in essential oils. These mixtures often contain resin acids, esters, or alcohols, contributing to their complex chemical nature.
The physical properties of balsam typically involve a mobile to highly viscous liquid, sometimes containing crystallized resin particles. Over time, balsam can lose its liquid components or undergo chemical conversion, becoming a more solid material. Many balsams are characterized by the presence of benzoic or cinnamic acid, or their esters, which contribute to their aromatic profile.
Key Types of Balsam
Canada Balsam is an oleoresin derived from the balsam fir tree (Abies balsamea) found in boreal North America. This greenish-yellow, syrupy liquid is collected from blisters on the tree’s trunk. It was historically used as an optical adhesive due to its clear, transparent film and refractive index similar to glass.
Peru Balsam, despite its name, primarily originates from Myroxylon balsamum var. pereirae trees in El Salvador, though historically shipped through Peruvian ports. This aromatic, dark-brown oily fluid has a sweet scent similar to cinnamon and vanilla. It contains compounds like cinnamein, cinnamic acid, and vanillin.
Tolu Balsam is obtained from Myroxylon balsamum var. balsamum trees in South America, particularly Colombia. This balsam starts as a soft, yellowish-brown, semi-solid mass that gradually becomes a brittle solid upon drying. It possesses a warm, vanilla-like aroma and contains resin, cinnamic acid, and benzoic acid.
Everyday Uses of Balsam
Balsams find wide application in the fragrance industry, where their warm, sweet, and resinous notes are valued. Peru Balsam, for instance, is used in perfumes and toiletries for its fragrance and as a fixative, extending scent longevity. Tolu Balsam is also prized in perfumery for its mellow, spicy scent.
In traditional medicine, balsam has been used for various ailments. Canada Balsam resin was applied topically as an antiseptic for wounds and burns, and its vapors inhaled for respiratory issues. Peru Balsam has been used in pharmaceuticals for skin conditions and as an expectorant for coughs. Tolu Balsam is still included in some cough syrup formulas due to its expectorant qualities.
Beyond fragrances and medicine, balsams have industrial applications. Canada Balsam was historically used as a cement for optical lenses and for mounting specimens on microscope slides due to its optical clarity and refractive index. Some balsams, like Copaiba, are also used in varnishes and lacquers. Certain balsams are also used as flavoring agents in foods and beverages.