Benefits
Benzoin Essential Oil is an expectorant, helping asthma, bronchial congestion, and coughs. Works well on chapped, inflamed, or irritated skin, including cuts and eczema. Has been shown to relieve gout, arthritis, rheumatism and colic.
Instructions for Use
Because the oil is so thick, it works best in a candle diffuser. Can also be blended for topical application.
History and Additional Information
The Benzoin tree from most commonly grown in Sumatra matures to a height of around 20-30 feet. Resin is collected by making deep gashes in the base of the tree (trunk) which then exudes a grayish sap. Once it hardens, it is scraped off the bark. When the sap solidifies and becomes brittle, the essential oil is extracted by means of solvents, usually ethanol.
Early use of benzoin was for fumigation purposes and is known to be used as an ingredient in incense since ancient times in India and Asia. It is also a fixative used in the art of perfuming, and is one of the ingredients of ‘Friar’s balsam’, taken for respiratory problems.
Details
- Latin/Botanical Name: Styrax benzoin / Styraxtonkinensis
- Other Names: gum benzoin, lubanjawi (frankincense of Java), Benjamin or Styrax benzoin.
- Family: Stryracaceae
- Part of Plant Used: resin
- Place of Origin: Southeast Asia
Characteristics
- Odor/Fragrance: Rich, somewhat woody, warm, creamy, vanilla
- Color: golden brown
- Aroma Strength: light-medium
- Consistency: thick
- Note: base
Blending Suggestions: Frankincense or Myrrh, Sandalwood, Cedarwood, Vetiver or Patchouli, Mandarin, Tangerine, Sweet Orange, and Bergamot,Yuzu.
Safety Precautions for this Essential Oil: May cause contact dermatitis.
Buy Essential Oil:
Best Value per ounce: GH
This brand is less expensive per ounce, but still offers a great value.
Rating: ★★★★☆
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