Complete Guide to Essential Oils/A to Z of essential oils/Benzoin

Benzoin oil comes from the resin (dried sap) of the Styrax benzoin tree. It has a warm, sweet scent, similar to vanilla. It has a calming and stabilizing effect. It is a base note oil.

Styrax benzoin

Benzoin (Styrax benzoin)

Properties

Benzoin resin

Digestive

Stimulates the pancreas and may help to stabilize blood sugar levels.

Emotional

Soothes stress, anxiety and nervousness. With a comforting and relaxing effect on the mind, it can help reduce "overthinking" and mental exhaustion. Use it with a carrier oil for massage or through inhalation.

Immunological

Benzoin has an anti-infectious property and can help to fight infection.

Respiratory

Relieves asthma, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, laryngitis and symptoms of a cold. For coughs and sore throats, apply benzoin in a balm or cream to the throat and chest.

Pain

Eases muscle pain. Use with a carrier oil for massage, or add to a bath. Soothes mouth ulcers.

Skin

Improves acne, eczema, psoriasis, rashes and scar tissue. Helps chapped skin, chilblains, frostbite and minor wounds to heal.

Blend with

Benzoin works well in blends with bergamot, frankincense, juniper berry, lavender, lemon, bitter orange and sandalwood.

Caution

• Benzoin oil can be very relaxing.