Balsam fir essential oil (Abies balsamea) is steam-distilled from the branches of conifer trees. It is known for its fresh, clean, balsamic, and sweet odor.

Balsam fir contains antiseptic, astringent, diuretic, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, sedative, and tonic properties. This essential oil is historically known for its fragrance and aids with respiratory complaints, fevers, and muscular and rheumatic pain. Today, the most common use of balsam fir is for muscle fatigue and overworked muscles and joints. Some other possible uses of this oil are for asthma, burns, coughs, cuts, depression, hemorrhoids, pain, tension (nervous), and urinary infections.

This oil primarily affects the emotional balance, muscles and bones, and nervous and respiratory systems of the body. It creates a feeling of grounding, anchoring, and empowerment. Balsam fir should be diffused, applied directly to an area of concern, or applied to Vita Flex points. It has been approved by the FDA as a food additive and flavoring agent.

Safety Data: Can irritate sensitive skin, so avoid direct sunlight for 3–6 hours following topical use. Not for children under 6 years old; use with caution and in greater dilution for children older than 6.

Tips for Using Balsam Fir Essential Oil:

1. For an energy-boosting bath, combine 2 cups (480 g) of epsom salt, 1 cup (200 g) sea salt, 6 drops balsam fir, 10 drops rosemary, and 15 drops peppermint in a bowl; let sit overnight. Add 4 heaping spoonfuls of the salt mixture to your running bathwater, and enjoy a great refreshing boost of energy.
2. For an anti-inflammatory ointment, combine 2 drops peppermint and 1 drop balsam fir with 1 Tbsp. (15 ml) of your favorite carrier oil, and gently rub onto the area of concern.
3. For a muscle relief massage oil, combine 3 drops rosemary, 2 drops marjoram, and 1 drop balsam fir with 1 Tbsp. (15 ml) carrier oil, and rub directly on the area of concern.
4. Diffuse balsam fir with some of your favorite oils for some nice winter smells. Try some of these diffuser blends!

Wake Me Up 3 drops rosemary 2 drops balsam fir 1 drop thyme

First Snowfall 4 drops wintergreen 2 drops balsam fir

Holiday Glow 2 drops cinnamon bark 6 drops balsam fir 4 drops orange

Sources:
Reference Guide for Essential Oils, 2017 Edition, pp. 112–13.
Organic Beauty With Essential Oil by Rebecca Park Totilo.
Aromatherapy: An A-Z by Patricia Davis