Description
A topical tree which grows to 20m high with pale - green leaves and a hard shelled fruit. Incisions are made into the bark of the tree to extract the material which will make the oil.
Characteristics
Vanillin gives this oil a pleasant aroma similar to vanilla. Soothing, warming, comforting. In the bath or massage calms the mind and soothes the emotions.
Oils to Blend with
Cypress, Orange, Rose.

Latin Name
Styrax benzoin

Plant Family
Styracacae

Extraction Method
The resin is 50% dissolved in benzyl alcohol to make it suitable for aromatherapy purposes.

Country of Origin
Laos, harvested also in Sumatra the Sumatran Benzoin is not as refined an odour.

Chemical Constituents
Benzoic, Cinnamic (Acids), Benzoic aldehyde, Vanillin (Aldehydes), Benzyl benzoate (Esther)

Precautions
Benzoin can have a drowsy effect, so if you know you need to concentrate on something it is best to avoid it.