Benzoin
Styrax benzoin
Characteristics: An orangy-brown thick liquid with a sweet balsamic, vanilla like odour.
Blends well with: coriander and other spice oils, cypress, jasmine, juniper, lemon, myrrh, rose and sandalwood.
Actions: Anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, antisceptic, astringent, carminative, deodorant, diuretic, expectorant, sedative and vulnerary.
Aromatherapy and Home use:
Skin care: Cuts, chapped skin, inflamed and irritated conditions.
Circulation, Muscles and Joints: Arthritis, gout, poor circulation, rheumatism.
Respiratory System: Asthma, bronchitis, chills, colic, coughs, laryngitis.
Immune System: Flu.
Nervous System: Nervous tension and stress related conditions.
Safety Information: Non-toxic, non-irritant, possible sensitization so use in low dilution <1%.
‘It warms and tones the heart and circulation both physically and metaphorically: ‘This essence creates a kind of euphoria; it interposes a padded zone between us and events.’ Lawless: (1996) p222.