Balsam oil

Balsam oil, also called Peru Balsam or Balsam Peru oil, is an essential oil of Myroxylon pereirae.

Myroxylon pereirae is a native of South America.

Therefore references to "Balsam Oil" (or "Oil of Balsam") in the Bible or other ancient Middle Eastern texts are most likely to be to what later became known as "Balsam of Mecca" (Commiphora gileadensis) q.v.

Balsam oil originated in ancient Greece and it is still made in rural areas. Balsamo in Greek means remedy, relief. Balsam oil is made out of a yellow flowering plant that grows on its own. In ancient times they used it as a remedy for burns, for skin irritations, and for cosmetic purposes. Today it is sold in few Greek pharmacies