Benzoin Res. Oil
Benzoin oil is extracted from the resin of the Benzoin tree. This tree is an active member of the Stryracaceae plant family. Benzoin is indigenous to Sumatra, Java and Thailand. This deciduous tree has oval shaped leaves that are pointed. It grows up to a maximum height of 20 feet. Benzoin trees bear white bell shaped flowers that have a sweet fragrance. These flowers bloom in spring. The resin is extracted by making deep incisions in the trunk of the tree. The gray colored sap is allowed to become tough and brittle. This special resin is an important ingredient in popular incense. Benzoin oil is a natural ingredient which is also used in perfume industry.
Benzoin resinous oil is extracted from Benzoin resin by solvent extraction. This oil is extracted from the resin of the Benzoin trees that are seven years old or even older. Benzoin oil is warm, sweet and golden brown in color. This oil smells like vanilla with a treacle or syrup like viscosity. The uplifting and calming effects of this oil is said to soothe the mind and body. Benzoin oil is also popular for treating respiratory disorders and enhancing the blood circulation. It assists various skin problems like skin irritation, redness and itchiness. This oil is also proved to increase the elasticity of the skin. Benzoin oil blends well with sandalwood oil, bergamot oil, rose oil, lemon oil, coriander oil, orange oil, frankincense oil, petitgrain oil, juniper oil, myrrh oil and lavender oil. Indonesia and Morocco are the world’s largest Benzoin oil producing countries.
Latin name: Styrax benzoin.
Alternative names: Benzoin Resin, Friar’s balsam, Benzoin Gum, Luban Jawi, Gum Benjamin, Gum Benzoin, Frankincense of Java.
Benzoin trees are cultivated in many dense forests mainly for their beneficial gum. This tree is easy to cultivate and grows well in tropical and warm climatic conditions. Benzoin trees grow well in the tropical rainforests of southern Asia. These trees are cultivated by adopting various techniques in different parts of the world. Generally, the seedlings are planted for the growth of these valuable trees. Benzoin oil has numerous therapeutic properties like expectorant, deodorant, carminative, sedative, antioxidant, astringent, cordial, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, anti-depressant, vulnerary, antiseptic and styptic. This oil contains benzoic aldehyde, cinnamic acids, coniferyl benzoate, benzyl benzoate, vanillin and benzoic.
Uses: Benzoin oil is effective in treating a wide range of illnesses like asthma, bronchitis, eczema, cold, cough, arthritis, psoriasis, stress, chilblains, muscular pains, mouth ulcers, nervous disorders, bronchial congestion, rheumatism, chapped skin, skin irritation, colic and stiff muscles. This oil is also proved to calm the mind and body when diluted in bathing water. It is also said to treat depression and mood fluctuations.
