Tolu balsam essential oil

Scent: sweet and balsamic, amber, woody, with a peppery note

Note: base

Colour: light yellow to dark brown

Extraction: from resin

Country of origin: Colombia

Pairs well with: Orange, mandarin and bergamot brighten its sweetness. Vanilla, benzoin and patchouli enhance its oriental character, whilst cedar and sandalwood provide a dry, woody counterpoint.

Home fragrance products – nebulisers, diffusers, aromatherapy burners, humidifiers, sauna stones, as well as fragrance devices and car air fresheners. When diluted in a carrier oil, the essential oil is also suitable for skincare.

The nebuliser delivers the fullest fragrance – here, the oil is used undiluted. The oil is thick, so add it slowly to diffusers and humidifiers: 3–5 drops per 100 ml of water. In an oil burner, mix a few drops with water or a carrier oil and heat gently; in a sauna, add 2–3 drops to the water poured over the stones. Apply to the skin only after diluting to 1–2%, i.e. 2–3 drops per 10 ml of carrier oil.

INCI: Myroxylon Balsamum Balsam Oil, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Cinnamate, Cinnamal, Cinnamyl Alcohol, Benzyl Alcohol, Eugenol. The compounds in bold are natural constituents of tolu balsam resin, present in the oil without any additional addition.

Tolu balm contains a relatively high level of fragrance allergens, so it is particularly advisable to carry out a patch test on a small area of skin before first use – wait 24 hours. Do not apply undiluted to the skin: it irritates the skin and eyes and may cause an allergic reaction. Avoid contact with the eyes; in case of contact, rinse with plenty of water. Do not ingest; if swallowed, do not induce vomiting and seek medical advice. Keep out of reach of children. Exercise caution during pregnancy, whilst breastfeeding and when using on children. Store in a tightly sealed bottle, away from light. Do not pour down the drain – the oil is harmful to aquatic life.