Benzoin, Absolute

Benzoin is not a liquid oil, and it is not distilled. The raw material is a hard, brittle resin. To be workable in a dispensary it must be extracted and dissolved, which is why benzoin is sold as a dilution.

01 · Origin

Styrax tonkinensis, Siam benzoin, is a tree of the Styracaceae native to mainland South-East Asia. The bark is cut and the resin collected as it hardens on the trunk. This material comes from Laos, from conventionally managed trees.

02 · Process

The resin is extracted with solvent to an absolute, then diluted to 20% in organic castor oil and alcohol. The castor oil keeps the resin in solution and gives the material its viscous texture. Trans-cinnamic acid and cinnamyl cinnamate are the principal aromatic constituents; ethanol comes from the carrier.

03 · In Practice

Warm, balsamic and vanilla-sweet, with a soft resinous body. A base note and a fixative in natural perfumery, slowing the evaporation of lighter materials. Massage blends, skincare formulation and meditation practice. Allow for its viscosity when measuring by the drop. Blends with rose, sandalwood, frankincense, Vanilla (CO2-Extract) (No. 2931), orange, ylang ylang and labdanum.

General information: For external use only. Dilute before applying to skin. Keep away from heat and sunlight. Keep out of reach of children. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes.