[[File:Peru balsam.jpg|thumb|Alt=|250px|left|Peru Balsam]]Other Names : Myroxylon pereirae, Balsam of Peru, Peruvian balsam, Indian balsam, black balsam, balsam Peru.
==Special Precautions of Peru Balsam==
* Balsam of Peru and its essential oil have a major issue of allergy. This resin is one of the most allergic substances in nature. It has been classified among the top five allergens to be found in allergy patch test. This shows that many people who are vulnerable to allergies can be susceptible to this ingredient. An allergic reaction to Peru Balsam essential oil usually shows up as contact dermatitis. However, it can lead to severe inflammation of the lips, mouth or tongue. Blisters may pop up and they may be quite painful. It can lead to rhinitis with symptoms like runny nose, watery eyes and even hives. Therefore, one should always perform a patch test before using Balsam Peru essential oil. There is not much information on the safe dosage and interactions of this essential oil.
==Health Benefits and uses of Peru Balsam ==
* Bronchitis and Respiratory Conditions : Balsam of Peru essential oil is incredibly helpful in respiratory conditions in which there is productive cough. It acts as an expectorant and helps the lungs expel all the attached phlegm. This clears the airway from congestion and provides relieved breathing. In this way, it helps in cold, flu, bronchitis, pneumonia and other conditions which overproduce phlegm. For these conditions, add 3 – 4 drops of Peru Balsam essential oil in a vaporizer and let its aroma diffuse in the air all around. Its sweet cinnamon like aroma helps one to breathe easily and congestion is reduced. After a few minutes, do a warm salt water gargle as a home remedy to loosen the phlegm. This procedure also reduces inflammation in the nose and throat. Because of its antibacterial activity, it kills some species of bacteria in the air, especially when mixed with other antibacterial essential oils like tea tree oil and eucalyptus oil.