Description

Benzoin – Styrax benzoin, is more than just an aromatic resin; it’s a natural treasure with a wide range of uses. Whether for skincare, emotional support, or creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, this ancient remedy continues to bring warmth and comfort to modern life. People often experience the benefits of its soothing and stimulating properties while indulging in its rich, vanilla-like scent.

Benzoin is often used in our perfumes as a fixative making our perfumes last longer while adding to the body of the perfume.

Key Features and Characteristics

• Source: Extracted from the Styrax benzoin tree, native to Thailand, Laos, Indonesia, and surrounding regions.
• Appearance: A rich, amber-colored resin with a thick, honey-like consistency.
• Aroma: Warm, balsamic, and reminiscent of vanilla, often described as comforting and reminiscent of “ice cream.”
• Extraction Method: Solvent extraction of the resin, which darkens naturally as it dries.

Therapeutic Benefits

1. Soothing and Comforting
   • Ideal for addressing cracked or chapped skin, including hands and feet.
   • Long used by ballet dancers to heal and protect cracked toes.
   • A popular ingredient in hand creams for those exposed to harsh conditions, such as gardeners, builders, and foresters.
2. Warming and Stimulating
   • Helps to stimulate circulation and “get things moving” in the body.
   • Aids in clearing mucus, relieving griping stomach pains, and soothing urinary tract discomfort.
   • Warming properties make it beneficial for colds, coughs, and sore throats, especially when used in inhalation forms like Friar’s Balsam.
3. Psychological Support
   • Known for its ability to uplift and soothe the mind, it’s especially beneficial for sadness, loneliness, and anxiety.
   • A powerful ally during emotional crises, particularly when blended with complementary oils like Rose.
   • Offers a comforting and grounding effect, echoing its historical use to “cast out devils,” now interpreted as emotional distress.
4. Aromatic Versatility
   • Often used as a fixative in potpourris and perfumes.
   • Combines beautifully with a wide range of essential oils, including lavender, rose, sandalwood, ylang-ylang, and vanilla.

How to Use

• Skincare: Add to hand creams or balms for cracked, chapped skin. Blend with lemon or lavender oils for enhanced healing effects.
• Aromatherapy: Use in diffusers or as part of a massage blend to create a warm, comforting atmosphere.
• Inhalation: Dilute with water as a steam inhalation for respiratory support, particularly during colds or coughs.
• Emotional Well-Being: Incorporate into massage oils or baths to alleviate stress and promote emotional balance.

Blends Well With

Benzoin pairs harmoniously with essential oils such as:

• Lavender, Rose Absolute, Sandalwood, Vanilla
• Citrus oils like Sweet Orange and Grapefruit
• Spicy and warming oils like Ginger, Black Pepper, and Nutmeg

Precautions

• Perform a patch test before use if you have sensitive or allergy-prone skin.
• Avoid applying undiluted oil directly to the skin.