Copaiba Balsam

What is copaiba balsam ?

Copaiba balsam is extracted through steam distillation from the resin of the copaiba tree. The steam distilled essential oil is brown in colour with a woody, spicy and slightly sweet aroma.

The copaiba tree grows in a tropical climate in South America, especially in the Amazon rainforest. It is a perennial tree that normally grow to heights of 2-6 metres.

Origin and history

The copaiba tree was first discovered in the 16th century and its resin was used for a variety of applications.

In cosmetics, they would add the resin to soaps, shampoos and use it as a perfume for its aroma and natural benefits.

In medicines, copaiba was used to treat respiratory issues and diseases. They would burn the resin and use the smoke to treat headaches, congestion and other cold symptoms. It was also used to help heal wounds due to its natural anti inflammatory properties.

Today, copaiba is mainly used in cosmetic products and perfumes.

Blending suggestions

Copaiba balsam has a woody, spicy aroma and it often used as a base note in blends. It can be blended with essential oils like lavender, vetiver, chamomile, bergamot, cedarwood and lime.

Here are a few blends with copaiba oil:

Citrusy and woody blend:

3 drops Lime oil

3 drops Copaiba oil

2 drops Cedarwood oil

Sweet with woody notes blend:

4 drops Bergamot oil

3 drops Copaiba oil

2 drops Tangerine oil

Floral, woody and spicy blend:

4 drops Frankincense oil

3 drops Copaiba oil

2 drops Lavender oil

How to store copaiba essential oil

Copaiba balsam should be stored out of direct sunlight, in a cool dry place. This helps prolong the quality of the oil and stops it from degrading over time. Ensure to store the copaiba balsam out of reach of children.

Safety precautions

If you want to use copaiba balsam on the skin, it must be diluted in a carrier oil before topical use. The pure, undiluted oil should not be applied topically to the skin as it could cause irritation, skin sensitivity or allergic reactions.

We recommend doing a patch test with the diluted copaiba balsam on a small area of skin. This is to ensure there are no reactions to the oil on skin.

Copaiba balsam is for external use only and must not be used internally. Ensure the oil is kept out of reach of children.

FAQ's 

What is copaiba balsam INCI name?

The INCI name for copaiba balsam is copaifera officinalis resin.

Where does our copaiba oil originate from?

Our copaiba balsam originates from Brazil.

What is copaiba oil good for?

Copaiba balsam can be used to add fragrance to soaps, lotions, body creams, massage oils, shampoos, conditioners and perfumes.

It is often used for its anti inflammatory properties to reduce blemishes and irritation on the skin. Copaiba balsam may have some anti inflammatory benefits, but more scientific research still needs to be done.