A very viscous liquid, with a typically "balsamic" odour, somewhat resembling vanilla, is collected from a tree of the genus Myroxylan. A large tree of approximately 25 metres in height. Every part of the tree, including the fibrous fruit, contains a resinous juice. The tree freely exudes the resin, upon contact with air, it gets harder or firmer to touch, and possibly brittle. Yet, when chewed like gum, it begins to soften. Each tree is capable at a reported yield of about 2.5 - 3.5 kg per year. Trees of 25-30 years of age may be tapped but productivity increases as the trees get older, reaching a maximum at about 60 years. Highest yields are obtained during the hot, dry periods of the year.  

The trees are beaten and scorched by fire and left for 6 - 8 days to allow the bark to soften. They are then stripped back, partial strips remain to avoid permanent damage to the tree. The removed bark is crushed and pressed with hot water which softens the balsam and facilitates its extraction. The exposed trunk wood is covered with rags which absorb the balsam and these are also treated with hot water. In both cases (bark and rags), the balsam settles to the bottom of the containing vessels and is removed after decanting the water. Up to 18 "tappings" can be made each year at approximately two-week intervals. 

Widely and popularly used for the skin care and treating common irritations, such as dry and chapped skin, eczema, rashes, sores, minor wounds and topically skin complaints. It is said, to aid the circulation of muscles and joints by lowering blood pressure and easing rheumatism, colds,asthma, bronchitis, and coughs. It is considered warming and comforting and is used in various nervous tension and stress formulas. 

Blends well with : Cardamom, Cedarwood, Cinnamon, Clove, Jasmine, Mandarin, Orange, Orange Blossom Absolute,  Patchouli, Petitgrain, Rose, Sandalwood, Vanilla, Violet Leaf Absolute, and Ylang Ylang.