Balsam Fir essential oil is steam distilled from the needles and twigs of the Canadian and northeast American balsam fir tree. It has been used for centuries by Native Americans for medicine and in religious ceremonies. It is used for chest colds, bronchitis and asthma and other conditions of the upper and lower respiratory tract. It may also help with arthritis, rheumatism and other forms of joint pain. Balsam Fir is used in anti-anxiety blends due to its elevating, strengthening quality. Its wonderful scent purifies the air and is often included in blends to diffuse over the holidays.