Styrax Benzoin Absolute (Styrax benzoin)

Overview

Styrax Benzoin Absolute may also be referred to as gum benjamin tree, loban, styrax tonkinensis, kemenyan, onycha, and sumatra benzoin. It is typically processed using solvent extracted what is an absolute? as a method for extracting oil from the resin.

Summary

Styrax Benzoin possesses a sweet, warming, rich, vanilla-like aroma with resinous undertones. It is derived from the resin of the Styrax Benzoin tree. I've also heard reference to this tree being called the Gum Benjamin Gum. Styrax Benzoin Resin has traditionally been used in incense applications. The resin normally is available in chunks or can be powderized just prior to use (the powder will re-harden if left too long).

Essential Facts

  • Aroma Description:

    Rich Vanilla-like Warm Woody

  • Common Name(s): gum benjamin tree, loban, styrax tonkinensis, kemenyan, onycha, and sumatra benzoin
  • Synonyms(s) for Styrax benzoin: Benzoin officinale, Benzoina vera, Cyrta dealbata, Lithocarpus benzoin, Plagiospermum benzoin, Styrax benjuiferus, Styrax benzoin var. hiliferum, Styrax dealbata

  • Botanical Family: Styracaceae
  • Botanical Genus: Styrax
  • Major Compounds: Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Alcohol, (Z)-Cinnamyl (E)-Cinnamate, Cinnamic Acid, Ethyl Cinnamate, Benzoic Acid
  • Perfumery Note: Base
  • Consistency: Thick Viscosity. Can be tricky to work with. For tips, see Working With and Blending Thick Aromatic Oils.
  • Strength of Initial Aroma: Light-Medium
  • Color: Golden Brown
  • Indigenous Country: Base
  • Processing Methods: Solvent Extracted What is an Absolute?
  • Part Typically Used: Resin
  • Vegan Vegan

Essential Details

Benefits & Uses

May be benefitial for addressing the following ailments:

Arthritis Bronchitis Coughs Laryngitis Skin : Chapped Skin : Dry Stress

Therapeutic Benefits of Styrax Benzoin Absolute:

Anti-arthritic

Cautions & Safety

Safety Precautions for Styrax Benzoin Absolute:

Do not take any oils internally and do not apply undiluted essential oils, absolutes, CO2s or other concentrated essences onto the skin without advanced essential oil knowledge or consultation from a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. If you are pregnant, epileptic, have liver damage, have cancer, or have any other medical problem, use oils only under the proper guidance of a qualified aromatherapy practitioner. Use extreme caution when using oils with children and be sure to first read the recommended dilution ratios for children. Consult a qualified aromatherapy practitioner before using oils with children, the elderly, if you have medical issues or are taking medications. For in-depth information on oil safety issues, read Essential Oil Safety by Robert Tisserand and Rodney Young.