FIR, BALSAM, OIL

Description

A tall tree having a characteristic pyramidal shape with numerous branches. The tree is widespread throughout North America, particularly in Canada (Nova Scotia), and the northern United States. A liquid oleoresin is contained in vesicles under the back of the trunk. This resin, known as Canada balsam, is collected between May and August from incisions made in the bark. The operation is repeated on the same tree every two to three years. Canada balsam is in fact a turpentine consisting mainly of resin and essential oil; the resin does not contain benzoic and cinnamic acids. The balsam is a viscous, pale-yellow to greenish-yellow translucent mass that slowly dries on exposure to air. It has a characteristic, pleasant turpentine odor. The needles, twigs, and balsam are the parts used. Fir, balsam has a balsamic, pleasant, fresh odor, reminiscent of spruce or hemlock.