Amyris Balsamifera Bark Oil Worst Irritant No known benefits Amyris Balsamifera Bark Oil at a glance Essential oil extracted from Amyris balsamifera tree Primarily a fragrance ingredient Has a smell that resembles sandalwood Has herbicidal, larvicidal, and antimicrobial properties Contains eugenol, which can irritate and sensitize skin Amyris Balsamifera Bark Oil description Amyris balsamifera bark oil is an essential oil extracted from the bark of a flowering tree called _Amyris balsamifera_. It is noted for having a strong, resinous scent. It is also known as torchwood for its highly flammable resin and is sometimes referred to as a type of sandalwood (though it is not) because of its scent resemblance. Research shows this oil has both herbicidal and larvicidal properties and can exhibit antimicrobial benefits, though its inclusion in cosmetics is primary as a fragrance ingredient. Unfortunately, some of the components within amyris oil – namely eugenol, which gives it most of its antimicrobial properties – can cause skin irritation and sensitivity, especially if left on skin for an extended period of time. Related ingredients: Eugenol