Balsam poplar (EO)

It is often used as:

• A base note in perfumes, which gives depth and longevity.
• A natural fragrance fixative to stabilize and enhance the overall fragrance composition

 

Balsam poplar essential oil combines well with:

1. Citrus oils (e.g. Bergamot, Orange): Adds freshness and brightness.
2. Floral oils (e.g. Lavender, Rose): Balances the sweetness with a calming effect.
3. Wood oils (e.g. Cedarwood, Sandalwood): Enhances the earthy and anchoring aspects.

 

While specific perfumes may not directly mention Populus balsamifera, its balsamic and resinous qualities can be found in iconic scents such as:

• Chanel No. 5 : Known for its aldehydic and floral notes, complemented by balsamic undertones.
• Shalimar by Guerlain : Has a rich blend of vanilla, amber and balsamic notes.
• Opium by Yves Saint Laurent : A spicy, resinous fragrance with balsamic depth.

The essential oil of Populus balsamifera (Balsam Poplar) is usually extracted from the aromatic buds by steam distillation .
This process involves heating the buds to release their volatile components, which are then condensed and collected as essential oil.
The resulting oil is a clear liquid with a resinous and sweet odor.

Another advanced method, known as the barothermal isolation method , uses controlled pressure and temperature (about 140°C under vacuum conditions) to extract the oil.
This technique is particularly effective for isolating specific components such as α-bisabolol and β-eudesmol , which contribute to the therapeutic properties of the oil.