Sumatra banzoe pieces

Botanical Name: Styrax Tonkynensis

Siam Benzoin is a natural gum-resin or, more correctly, a “balsamic resin”.

The resin is obtained from the small tree, Styrax Tonkinensis, a native of Indochina (Laos and Tonkin). Other species are known to yield similar gum-resins called Siam benzoin. The balsamic latex flows from wounds in the bark and outer wood where incisions are made deliberately.

The odor is pleasant, sweet balsamic with a distinct note of vanillin. Benzoin is a common ingredient in incense-making and perfumery because of its sweet vanilla-like aroma and fixative properties. Gum benzoin is a major component of the type of church incense used in Russia and some other Orthodox Christian societies, as well as Western Catholic Churches. Most benzoin is used in the Arab states of the Persian Gulf and India, where it is burned on charcoal as an incense. In perfumery, benzoin is used as a fixative, slowing the dispersion of essential oils and other fragrance materials into the air. Benzoin is used in cosmetics, veterinary medicine, and scented candles. It is used as a flavoring in alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, baked goods, chewing gum, frozen dairy, gelatins, puddings, and soft candy.

In the United States, Sumatra benzoin (Styrax benzoin and Styrax paralleoneurus) is more customarily used in pharmaceutical preparations, Siam benzoin (Styrax tonkinensis et al.) in the flavor and fragrance industries. 

Benzoin Resin has antiseptic, diuretic and expectorant properties. It is rapidly absorbed when taken internally and acts as a carbonate. It is very effective in treating congestion in bronchitis, asthma and laryngitis as well as allergies. It is known to remove congestion easily by providing quick relief. It is most effective when inhaled with steam as a tincture. It is also used to treat rheumatoid arthritis and gout.

Benzoin Resin is beneficial for blood circulation, regulates heart rate and stimulates the heart. Applied externally it provides relief for a number of skin problems such as itching, eczema, redness and irritation. Recommended for external use only.