Resin

Tolu Balsam

Note Profile

Natural 196 perfumes

Also Known As

Tolu Balm, Tolu Resin

About

Sweet, warm, slightly floral balsam with vanilla and cinnamon facets

Scent Profile

Tolu Balsam has a sweet, warm, and resinous aroma with pronounced vanilla and cinnamon-like undertones, complemented by subtle floral and ambery nuances. Its scent evolves from a rich, syrupy opening to a soft, powdery drydown. The overall character is comforting and enveloping, with a mild spiciness.

ScentWheel

Breadthfocused

EnvelopeBase · ~168h lasting

Origin

Tolu Balsam is obtained from the resin of the Myroxylon balsamum tree, native to South America, particularly Colombia and Peru. The resin is collected by making incisions in the tree bark and is then purified for use in perfumery. It is typically available as a thick, sticky balsam or as an absolute via solvent extraction.

Usage in Perfumery

Perfumers use Tolu Balsam primarily as a base note to impart warmth, sweetness, and fixative properties to compositions. It blends well with other balsams, vanilla, spices, florals, and woody notes, and is often found in oriental, amber, and gourmand fragrances. Its softening effect helps round out sharp edges in blends.