Balsamic turpentine should not be confused with the petrochemically derived turpentine used as solvent substitute that is also known as ‘white spirit’. Balsamic turpentine is won by water vapour distillation from various species of pine all around the world. Balsamic turpentine is a fluid plant oil with a fresh, slightly resinous scent. It is used in paints and varnishes as thinning agent but also as bath supplement and for medicinal applications.