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](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1f/Styrax_benzoin_-_K%C3%B6hler%E2%80%93s_Medizinal-Pflanzen-133.jpg/200px-Styrax_benzoin_-_K%C3%B6hler%E2%80%93s_Medizinal-Pflanzen-133.jpg)
- Benzoin (Styrax benzoin)
Properties
editDigestive
editStimulates the pancreas and may help to stabilize blood sugar levels.
Emotional
editSoothes 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
editBenzoin has an anti-infectious property and can help to fight infection.
Respiratory
editRelieves 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
editEases muscle pain. Use with a carrier oil for massage, or add to a bath. Soothes mouth ulcers.
Skin
editImproves acne, eczema, psoriasis, rashes and scar tissue. Helps chapped skin, chilblains, frostbite and minor wounds to heal.
Blend with
editBenzoin works well in blends with bergamot, frankincense, juniper berry, lavender, lemon, bitter orange and sandalwood.
Caution
edit- Benzoin oil can be very relaxing.