Benzoin Styrax benzoin
Origin: Phillipines.
Family: Styacaceae.
Part of plant used: Resin.
Method of Extraction: Solvent extraction.
A Birch-like tree growing to 20 feet high, producing white sap which becomes hard and brittle, and yellowish-brown in colour. The tree grows rapidly but is only "worked" after seven years. The bark is deliberately cut, causing the sap to run, and it is collected from the bark. Characteristics: Golden brown. Viscous, treacle-like. Warm, balsamic, chocolate-vanilla. Not to be confused with other benzoin species which are used in the perfume trade. Properties: Antiseptic, antidepressant, vulnerary, expectorant, pectoral. Blends well with: Bergamot, black pepper, clary sage, coriander, frankincense, ginger, geranium, grapefruit, lemon, may chang, jasmine, marjoram, niaouli,
nutmeg, orange, patchouli, palmarosa, rose, sandalwood, vetiver, ylang ylang.
Precautions: Non-toxic but occasionally sensitising.
