Poplar Balsam (Organic)

The name balm of Gilead is applied in North America to the resinous buds of balsam poplar. The balm of Gilead of older texts is a Middle Eastern resin from Commiphora gileadensis. The two are unrelated materials that share a name.

01 · Origin

Populus balsamifera is a fast-growing tree of the willow family, Salicaceae, found across the northern forests of North America. This oil is distilled from the buds of wild-crafted trees in Canada, certified organic.

02 · Process

The buds are gathered before they open, while their scales are coated in a sticky, fragrant resin. Distillation recovers a sesquiterpene-rich oil. Alpha-bisabolol leads, followed by beta- and gamma-eudesmol and trans-nerolidol. All four are sesquiterpene alcohols, which gives the oil its soft body and staying power.

03 · In Practice

Sweet, balsamic and faintly honeyed, with a green, hay-like undertone. A middle-to-base note. Natural perfumery, skincare formulation and massage blends at low concentration. Blends with Virginia cedar, labdanum, benzoin, lavender, rose, sandalwood and bergamot.

General information: For external use only. Dilute before applying to skin. Keep away from heat and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.