Benzoin

Styrax tonkinensis

Benzoin, a member of the Styraceae family, is collected as a resin exuded from the trunk after the bark is cut, and is in solid brown to white brittle pieces. More processing is required to bring the benzoin to liquid form. Benzoin comes from trees native to Thailand and Sumatra, and is an ingredient of incense. Commonly known as ‘friar’s balsam’. Care should be taken to obtain a good quality oil.

General properties
• relaxing
• sedative
• warming
Blends well with
• cedarwood
• petitgrain
• rose
• sandalwood
General uses
• cystitis
• urinary infections
• chest complaints
• bronchitis
• chapped skin
• sores and wounds
• anorexia
• asthma
• catarrh
• coughs, flu and colds
• laryngitis
• poor circulation
• coldness
• comfort
• dermatitis
• exhaustion
• grief
• inflamed skin
• tonsillitis
• throat infections
Caution
Not to be taken internally; possibility of allergic reactions, so do skin test first.