We choose our words carefully when we talk about a "jewel": the balsam fir is a true treasure of our woods.
What is a balsam fir?
Let's start with a brief, factual description —it's always the best way to break the ice! It belongs to the conifer family and can live up to 150 years. Of all the fir trees in the world, it grows the furthest north (as far as the 58th parallel). Another interesting characteristic: it likes to grow close together with other fir trees, thus forming an excellent windbreak!
If you'd like to identify it on your future walks, here are a few clues to help you. It has smooth, grayish bark, dotted with gum-filled blisters. Its needles are glossy green, flat, and not prickly, unlike those of the spruce. In fact, it keeps its needles longer than the spruce. 
Balsam fir needles
The balsam fir in Quebec history
First Nations people discovered the benefits of balsam fir a long time ago. They used it in their medicine but also for practical purposes: the gum can be used as glue for canoes, shoes, or to reinforce arrowheads.
Europeans, too, eventually came to appreciate the virtues of the balsam fir, particularly after a disastrous episode befell Jacques Cartier's crew. During the winter of 1536, an epidemic of scurvy (a severe vitamin C deficiency) struck more than half the men, leading to their certain death. Jacques Cartier then noticed that an Indigenous chief, Stadaconé, had recovered after also contracting the disease. The chief then taught the French navigator about the medicinal properties of balsam fir. The crew members drank a fir decoction for several days and were eventually cured. Jacques Cartier subsequently named it the "tree of life." 
Jacques Cartier's encounter with the First Nations
The benefits of balsam fir
Balsam fir is traditionally used to support the respiratory system and the immune system, particularly during winter ailments in Quebec. Its benefits are linked to its richness in vitamin C and natural aromatic compounds.
It is attributed with the following properties in particular:
- tonic
- antibacterial
- antiseptic
- decongestant
- anti-inflammatory
Balsam fir is particularly recommended for winter ailments by supporting the immune system and soothing the throat and lungs.
The gum can also be used as a poultice on wounds to disinfect them. Health Canada has recognized its benefits in relieving infections and inflammation of the respiratory tract.
Other, more practical uses are surprising: varnishes, microscope slides, glue for optical lenses, paints, etc.
Balsam fir and winter ailments
During the winter months in Quebec, the balsam fir becomes a valuable ally. Its decongestant and antiseptic properties support the respiratory system, soothe irritated throats, and help clear the lungs.
Its tonic action also helps to support the immune system during the cold seasons.
How to use balsam fir?
The balsam fir is not limited to medicinal uses: it also has a place of honor in cooking and in everyday rituals.
In the kitchen
Balsam fir has a pleasant resinous flavor. The young shoots are more subtle, while the mature needles have a more pronounced, slightly bitter taste. They can be used fresh or dried as flavorings, ground into a spice, or incorporated into jellies, syrups, and infusions.
To further explore boreal flavors, we've created designs inspired by these woody and resinous notes. Discover:
Delicious — an aromatic forest preparation that enhances and transforms your everyday dishes
Undergrowth — a wild mushroom spice blend with forest accents that evokes the richness of the undergrowth in every bite
As an infusion
The needles and young shoots can be consumed as a decoction to benefit from their properties.
If you prefer a ready-to-drink version, we also offer a balsam fir herbal tea picked and prepared in Quebec.
As a poultice
The gum can be applied topically for its traditional antiseptic properties.
To light a fire
Thanks to its gum and needles rich in essential oils, the balsam fir is very flammable and can be used to start a fire even in damp weather.
Natural incense
Its needles, wood and resin can be used to make natural incense with a woody and invigorating scent.
When to harvest balsam fir?
We're sure you're itching to go pick some now! So here are the harvesting times we recommend:
- gum: June to August
- young shoots: June - July
- Needles: all year round
Frequently Asked Questions about Balsam Fir
What are the benefits of balsam fir?
The benefits of balsam fir include tonic, antiseptic, antibacterial, and decongestant properties. It is traditionally used in Quebec to support the respiratory system and immune system, particularly during winter ailments.
Is the balsam fir edible?
Yes, balsam fir is edible. Its young shoots and needles can be used in infusions, syrups, or as a flavoring in cooking. Their resinous taste evokes the boreal forest and adds a unique touch to dishes.
Can you make balsam fir herbal tea?
Yes, balsam fir tea is prepared by decocting the needles or young shoots. It is traditionally consumed in Quebec to support the respiratory system and provide warmth during the cold season.
What is the difference between balsam fir and spruce?
The main difference between balsam fir and spruce lies in their needles. Balsam fir has flat, soft, and non-prickly needles, while spruce has stiffer, sharper needles.
How to use balsam fir?
Balsam fir can be used in infusions, cooking, poultices, or even for kindling thanks to its flammable resin. Its needles and gum are the most commonly used parts.
Does the balsam fir contain vitamin C?
Yes, balsam fir naturally contains vitamin C. This richness explains its historical use against scurvy during the first European winters in North America.
This article will undoubtedly help you better understand our love for this tree and why we use it in several products. We even want to go further! It's a true first-aid kit for the woods, a treasure still unknown to many, and we're happy if you enjoyed learning more about it.
