Balsam of peru

Balsam of Peru (CAS 8007-00-9), also known as Black Balsam, is a natural resinous exudate sourced from Myroxylon balsamum var. pereirae trees native to Central America. FEMA 2116.

Where is Balsam of peru used?

• Fragrance: fixative anchoring floral and oriental scent profiles in perfumes, soaps, cosmetic creams
• Pharmaceuticals: antimicrobial and tissue-stimulating component in topical preparations, wound dressings, suppositories
• Food: flavoring contributing warm, vanilla-like, spicy notes to confectionery, baked goods, beverages
• Personal care: hair tonics, lotions, dental preparations
• The resin also serves as an antimicrobial ingredient.
• At low dosage, enhances the perception of sweetness and mouthfeel in flavors.
• Used as a marker of fragrance allergy in patch testing.
• Used in medicinal preparations in many tropical countries, especially antitussive syrups.

Formulation notes

• May have problems related to its solubilization in alcohol.
• The essential oil is olfactorily more powerful than the resinoid and also more gourmand, vanilla-like and powdery.
• In perfumery it blends well with benzoin, vanilla materials and warm musks in oriental accords.

Typical specification

• Density at 20°C of 1.140 to 1.180 g/ml.
• Refractive index nd20 of 1.5800 to 1.5950.
• Contains 45-75% balsamic esters by GC, with a saponification value of esters greater than 230.
• Standard form is a dark brown, viscous liquid; powder or diluted solutions may also be available on the market.

Regulatory status

• IFRA restricts total level of Balsam of peru extracts and distillates to not exceed 0.4% in cosmetic products.
• Considered an allergen under European Regulation 2023/1545 of 26/08/2023 and must be labeled when it exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products.
• For food and pharmaceutical applications, it meets FCC and BP/Ph. standards.
• Hazard statement H317: may cause an allergic skin reaction.

Storage, packaging and handling

• After 24 months of storage, the quality must be checked before use.
• Should be stored in well-filled, closed containers in a cool, dry place protected from light.

Frequently asked questions about Balsam of peru

In what form is the material supplied for fragrance use?

It is supplied as a 50% resinoid in dipropylene glycol.

Technical content is compiled and updated by the SoleChem product team from public technical sources; the certificate of analysis (COA) governs product-specific specifications.