Benzoin
Species name: Styrax tonkinensis
Other names known as: Gum benzoin, luban jawi (Which means, “frankincense of Java”), benjamin, or styrax benzoin.
Benzoin, also known as gum benjamin, is one of the most common ingredients used in popular forms of incense. Deep incisions are made in the trunk of the benzoin tree, and the sap oozes from these incisions. When the resin becomes hard, it is hand collected from the bark.
In the ancient past, benzoin resin was burned in fumigation, and was often used to make 'Friar's balsam', which was used as a respiratory aid.
It is still used as a fixative in making perfume. Benzoin oil is extracted from the resin of a tree that must be at least seven years old for the extraction to take place. A solvent method of extraction is always used.
Benzoin oil's main chemical components are benzoic and cinnamic acids. For a complete list of the chemical components in Belzion essential oil, check the label.
Home Remedies using Benzoin Essential Oil
Benzoin oil has a sweet, warm aroma, similar to vanilla. Benzoin essential oil is a golden brown color, and has a thick consistency.
Benzoin oil has a resinous appearance, and is reported to have a very calming effect. It is said to have the ability to lift sad or melancholy moods. It is also believed to give the circulatory system a boost while easing respiratory conditions and symptoms.
Benzoin essential oil is also reported to have great rejuvenating effects on the skin, boosting elasticity, reducing redness, and providing relief from itching and irritation.
Benefits of Benzoin Essential Oil
Benzoin essential oil has been effective in helping to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis, bronchitis, and chapped skin.
It has also been used as a cough medicine, and to treat laryngitis and stress.
The therapeutic properties of benzoin essential oil are antiseptic, astringent, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Benzoin is also effective as an anti-depressant, a sedative, and a deodorant. It can be used to help prevent excess water retention, and as a carminative.
Benzoin essential oil can be used to treat bronchitis, coughs, and wounds. It is effective against acne, and other skin disorders such as eczema or psoriasis.
Blended with carrier oil and used in massage, benzoin essential oil is helpful in dealing with rheumatism, muscle pains, and arthritis. It also helps reduce the appearance of stretch marks and scar tissue, aids in circulation, relieves stress and nervous tension. Benzoin oil is effective in treating rashes and mouth ulcers.
Benzoin essential oil has a wonderful calming effect on the nervous and digestive systems, a positive effect on circulation problems and tones the respiratory tract. Benzoin oil is a valuable aid for sufferers of diabetes. By boosting the effectiveness of pancreatic functioning, digestion is aided, and sugar is metabolized in such a way that it helps control blood sugar.
The effect benzoin essential oil has on the skin makes it valuable as a beauty aid. It helps improve elasticity, heals cracked, dry skin, while aiding wound healing and reducing redness, itch and irritation.
In vapor therapy, Benzoin oil can be used for soothing and calming the nervous system. This vapor can ease depression, while revitalizing emotions, and energizing the tired.
- Benzoin oil can be diluted in the bath to relieve generalized aches and pains, and soothe arthritis and rheumatism, as well as giving relief from chronic bronchitis working as an expectorant to stop coughing.
- Benzoin essential oil also helps to improve poor circulation, and loosens up stiff muscles. It also has a calming effect and helps to ease depression. This essential oil also improves skin appearance by improving elasticity, taking away redness, and soothing irritation. It also is especially good for diabetics as it aids in healing wounds which is a problematic area for any diabetic.
Side Effects of Benzoin Essential Oil
It is possible for benzoin essential oil to cause contact dermatitis and make the skin sensitive.
Benzoin oil can have a very relaxing effect, so care should be taken when using it in strong concentrations.
