Fixatives balsam Peru

R = CH2C6H5, Ci4Hi202, Mt 212.25, Z>p2.okPa 170-171 °C, df 1.1121, ng 1.5680, is the main component of Peru balsam oil. It occurs in fairly large amounts in a number of blossom concretes and absolutes (e.g., tuberose and hyacinth). It forms either a viscous liquid or solid flakes (mp 21-22°C) and has a weak, sweet-balsamic odor. It is prepared either by transesterification of technical methyl benzoate with benzyl alcohol, or from benzyl chloride and sodium benzoate. A third process starts with benzaldehyde, which is converted in high yield into benzyl benzoate in the presence of sodium or aluminum benzylate (Tishchenko reaction). Benzyl benzoate is used in perfumery as a fixative and as a modifier in heavy blossom fragrances. 

The oil is used for its excellent fixative properties in perfumes for soap and cosmetics. Use of Peru balsam itself is banned because it is allergenic. 

Balsam of Peru is used extensively in topical preparations for the treatment of wounds, skin graft healing, indolent ulcers, scabies, diaper rash, hemorrhoids, anal pmritus, bedsores, intertrigo, eczema, and others in hair tonic and antidandruff preparations, feminine hygiene sprays, and as a fixative or fragrance... 

Contained in Peru balsam. Isol. from other plants e.g. Jasminum spp., ylang-ylang oil. Insect repellant component. Acaricide and pediculicide. Used in perfumery as fixative and in food flavouring. Leaflets, d 1.11. Mp 21° (19.5°). Bp 323-324° (316-317°), Bpo, 80-82°. Spar, steam-volatile. 

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