BENZOIN
A warm, comforting resinoid traditionally valued for grounding, respiratory support, and emotional wellbeing.
Botanical Information
Botanical Name: Styrax benzoin
Family: Styracaceae
Origin: South East Asia, Thailand
Method of Extraction: Solvent extraction of the tree resin
Note: Base
Colour: Brown to deep amber
Aroma: Sweet, balsamic, vanilla-like
About This Essential Oil
Benzoin is technically a resinoid rather than a pure essential oil. Derived from the resin of the Benzoin tree, it is prized for its rich, sweet aroma and grounding qualities. Traditionally valued for respiratory wellbeing, skin support, and emotional comfort, Benzoin is often included in blends designed to soothe both body and mind.
Key Benefits
• Traditionally supports respiratory wellbeing
• Grounding and emotionally comforting
• Supports dry and damaged skin
• Warming and comforting aroma
• Popular in meditation and relaxation blends
• Traditionally valued for emotional resilience
History
Benzoin is obtained from the gum resin of the tree after the bark is cut and the resin collected. It is then processed through solvent extraction. Because it is a resinoid rather than a true essential oil, it is naturally thick and often requires gentle warming before use. Benzoin has been used for thousands of years as an ingredient in incense and ceremonial preparations, valued for its sweet, comforting aroma and stabilising qualities.
Main Chemical Components
70% Esters, 15% Acids
Properties
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antiseptic
• Astringent
• Carminative
• Cordial
• Deodorant
• Diuretic
• Expectorant
• Sedative
• Styptic
• Vulnerary
• Antioxidant
Traditional Uses
• Skin – Traditionally used for cracked skin, dry skin, chilblains, and wounds.
• Circulatory – Traditionally used to support circulation and provide a warming effect.
• Respiratory – Traditionally valued for asthma, bronchitis, coughs, colds, catarrh, mucus congestion, infections, and supporting lung wellbeing.
• Digestive – Traditionally used for flatulence and calming digestive discomfort.
• Urinary – Traditionally used for cystitis, urinary discomfort, and supporting urine flow.
• Muscular – Traditionally valued for rheumatoid arthritis and gout.
• Other – Traditionally used for mouth ulcers.
Psychological & Emotional Uses
• Calming and comforting
• Traditionally used to support sadness, loneliness, and emotional exhaustion
• Helps release anger, worries, resentment, and past tensions
• Encourages confidence and emotional stability
• Supports meditation and spiritual practice
• Excellent grounding oil that encourages practical thinking and helps move through emotional blockages
Blends Well With
Bergamot, Coriander, Cypress, Frankincense, Jasmine, Juniper, Lemon, Petitgrain, Lavender, Myrrh, Rose, and Sandalwood.
Health & Safety
• Can be toxic in large doses.
• May cause drowsiness.
• May cause allergic reactions on sensitive skin.
• May negate homeopathic remedies.
• Do not apply to the face.
• For external use only.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Store below 25°C away from direct sunlight.
