Balsam Oil

Balsam Fir Essential Oil

Balsam essential oil has the crisp, refreshing scent of fir balsam needles. It is reminiscent of Christmas time, which is why the oil is a common addition to candles, potpourri, air fresheners, and lotions around the Holidays. So, where exactly does balsam oil come from? As its name implies, balsam essential oil is extracted from balsam fir (Abies balsamea), native to most of eastern and central Canada and the northeastern United States. Though the balsam fir is recognized first and foremost as our beloved Christmas tree, its liquid resin has long been prized for its impressive therapeutic properties. 

Indeed, balsam fir gum has an extensive and well-documented history of therapeutic use in North America and throughout Europe. In fact, balsam fir was extensively used by Native Americans in a range of medicinal and therapeutic applications, including as a flu remedy, coughs and congestion, as well as for the treatment of cuts, burns and sores. 

From a nutritional perspective, it is especially rich in vitamin C and contains vitamins B1, B2, and B3, calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, beta carotene, protein, and fibre. These nutrients impart balsam fir with its well-documented analgesic, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antiviral, decongestant, emollient, refreshing, and stimulating properties. 

Benefits Of Balsam Essential Oil

• Fights Sore Throat & Respiratory Infections
• Holiday Fragrance
• Natural Anti-Inflammatory, Antibacterial & Antiviral
• Soothes Muscle Aches & Arthritis

Balsam Essential Oil Uses

Balsam fir essential oil is ideally suited to reducing anxiety and promoting sleep. Balsam fir essential oil is also extraordinarily antiseptic. It promotes healing, which is why it can be added to a carrier oil or lotion to soothe and repair chapped skin (hands, heels, etc.) and treat wounds, cuts, burns, bruises, erysipelas, and sores. Topical application is also ideal for helping increase blood circulation and promote the healing of sore muscles and joints. 

Balsam essential oil is often added to a combination cold and flu formulas as well as makes a powerful chest rub (diluted in a carrier oil) to clear congestion and expectorate phlegm. 

Last, by no means least, balsam essential oil is frequently added to natural cleaning products thanks to its fresh, clean, and refreshing aroma.

Using Essential Oils

Balsam fir essential oil can be used as part of skincare to stimulate the senses and multiply cleansing benefits. It's also great used in massage therapy to provide a stimulating sensation. Balsam oil is excellent for diffusion to freshen the atmosphere and is especially suited for cold winter. Balsam essential oil blends well with Cedarwood, Citronella, Benzoin, Lavender, Chamomile, Spruce, and Rosemary for those looking to make their own DIY recipes. It can also be combined with other spicy scents, such as Cinnamon and Citrus.

When shopping for your balsam essential oil, look for one that is 100% pure and undiluted, and that is steam distilled for optimal purity.