Ingredient library · Herb
Balsam fir
Abies balsamea · PinaceaeIn one paragraph
Balsam fir is the classic northern conifer of eastern Canada, and the needles carry a bright, sweet, resinous aroma quite unlike pine. Nurtur wildcrafts it in the Muskoka region. Fir needle oils are rich in bornyl acetate, the compound responsible for that clean evergreen character.
How Nurtur Health uses it
Fir needles are wildcrafted and infused whole, and fir needle essential oil is used where a cleaner top note is wanted. It appears in the Balsam Fir Herbal Oil, the beard oil, the chest rub, the recovery bath soak and the Evergreen Lip Balm.
Traditional use
Evergreens have a long northern tradition in winter preparations and in steams. Here the fir is used mainly for its aroma and for the character it lends an infused oil.
Cautions — read before use
External use only. Not intended for internal use.
An essential oil. Never apply undiluted, and keep well away from eyes.
Always patch-test a new product before wider use.
Speak with a qualified practitioner before use in pregnancy, while nursing, on children, or alongside medication.
Products containing balsam fir
Written and reviewed by Olga, Herbal Academy graduate and founder of Nurtur Health.