Tolu Balsam

Tolu balsam is a yellow-brown resin that, like Peru balsam, comes from the Myroxylon tree, which grows in South and Central America, as well as the West Indies. Tolu balsam is extracted by cutting V-shaped incisions into the tree bark, which releases an oily, resinous, aromatic liquid, meant to heal the tree's wounds. This liquid is collected, and an essential oil is distilled from the balsam. The extraction process differs from that of Peru balsam, and the fragrance is somewhat sweeter and softer, more reminiscent of amber, although it also contains notes of cinnamon and spices.