BENZOIN (Tree) Styrax benzoin 
Benzoin oil has a sweet, warm and vanilla-like aroma and is golden brown in colour, with a thick treacle-like viscosity.
It relieves anxiety, tension, nervousness and stress. Actually it brings the nervous system and neurotic system to normal. That is why, in case of depression, it gives a feeling of mood-uplift and in case of anxiety and stress, it relaxes. It also has tranquilizing effects
It boosts the pancreas, which in turns helps digestion, and is thought to be involved in controlling blood sugar, which makes it valuable for sufferers of diabetes.
The effect it has on the skin is to improve elasticity, helping cracked skin, while aiding the healing of sores and wounds and at the same time reducing redness, irritation and itching. It has astringent properties which tone up the muscles and the skin; it is very helpful for face lifting and for reduction of wrinkles on the skin.
Benzoin is also noted for helping the respiratory system, being warm and disinfectant in nature, it behaves as a good expectorant. It helps removal of congestion from the respiratory system comprising of trachea, bronchi and lungs, thus easing asthma, soothing bronchitis, reducing chills and subduing coughs,
It is anti inflammatory in nature and soothes inflammation in cases of pox, measles, rashes and eruptions and others; it also helps soothe inflammation of the digestive system.
Benzoin oil gives very good relief in rheumatism and arthritis when applied externally, due to easy absorption of Benzyl components in it through the skin pores. Benzoin is useful for easing tired muscles,
Benzoin oil blends well with
Bergamot, Corriander, Cypress, Frankinsence, Juniper Berry, Lemon, Myrrh, Orange, Pettigrain, Rose and sandalwood.
Therapeutic properties
The therapeutic properties of benzoin oil include the following; antiseptic, anti-depressant, astringent, anti-inflammatory, carminative, cordial, deodorant, diuretic, expectorant, sedative and vulnerary.
Therapeutic properties explained
Extraction
Our Benzoin Essential Oil originates from Sumatra, and is extracted from the resin of a seven years and older tree by solvent extraction and yields about 65-85 % oil.
Chemical composition
Benzoin oil’s main chemical components are benzoic, cinnamic acids, benzyl benzoate, benzoic aldehyde, vanillin and coniferyl benzoate
Benzoin is a gum and in its natural state is too thick to be used in aromatherapy, to make it pourable Unicorn has blended their Benzoin in a solvent called di-propylene glycol (20%), this is common practice. Even after this, Benzoin is still highly viscous and to help overcome this problem Unicorn have supplied it with a large hole dripper. With all of this it may still be necessary to warm the bottle before use.
Precautions
When concentration is needed, it is best to avoid using Benzoin oil as it can have a very relaxing effect.
Safety: Non-toxic, non-irritant, possible sensitisation in some individuals.