Peru balsam

Despite its name, Peru balsam doesn’t come from Peru at all, but from the forests of El Salvador and Guatemala. The name dates back to colonial trade routes, when balsam was exported through Peruvian ports. The resin is drawn from the Myroxylon balsamum tree - its genus name meaning ‘fragrant wood’ in Greek.

The tree bark is gently scored - releasing a dark, honeyed resin - then steam distilled and transformed into an oil that is sweet and woody. As a base note in perfumery, Peru balsam acts as an excellent natural fixative, anchoring florals, vanillas and ambers in a blend.