Bright Mother Oil 
By Maeve

3 Myrrh
2 Cypress
2 Rose
4 Ylang, Ylang

Benzoin Essential Oil

Oil properties

Benzoin oil has a sweet, warm and vanilla-like aroma and is golden brown in color and has a treacle-like viscosity.

Origin of benzoin oil

The Benzoin tree is from Java, Sumatra and Thailand that grows to 8 meters (20 feet). Deep incisions are made in the trunk of the tree from which the grayish color sap exudes. When the resinous lump becomes hard and brittle, it is collected from the bark. Benzoin, also known as gum Benjamin, is one of the classic ingredients of incense. In ancient civilizations it was used in fumigation. Benzoin is an ingredient of 'Friar's balsam', an aid to respiratory problems.

Today Benzoin is used as an essential oil as well as a fixative in perfumes.

Extraction

Benzoin oil is extracted from the resin of a seven years and older tree by solvent extraction. It yields 65-85% oil.

Chemical composition

Benzoin oil's main chemical components are: Benzoic Acid, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Alcohol, Vanillin and Coniferyl benzoate.

Precautions

When concentration is needed, Benzoin is best avoided for it can have a relaxing effect. Therapeutic properties The therapeutic properties of Benzoin oil include the following; antiseptic, anti-depressant, anti-inflammatory, carminative, deodorant, diuretic, expectorant, sedative and vulnerary.

Uses

Benzoin oil can be used for bronchitis, coughs, colds, wounds, acne, eczema, psoriasis, rheumatism, arthritis, scar tissue, circulation, nervous tension, stress, muscle pains, chilblains, rashes and mouth ulcers.

Summary

Benzoin oil's greatest benefit lies in that is has a calming effect on the nervous and digestive systems, a warming effect on circulation problems and a toning effect on the respiratory tract.

Burners and vaporizers

In vapor therapy Benzoin oil can be used for the nervous system, calming and bringing comfort to the depressed and emotionally exhausted.

Blended oil or in the bath

Benzoin oil can be used in blended massage oil, or diluted in the bath to assist with general aches and pains, arthritis and rheumatism, and chronic bronchitis and coughing. Poor circulation can also benefit as well as stiff muscles. Benzoin oil has a calming effect when used as a massage oil, or in

the

bath when feeling depressed, or in stressful times or just as a relaxant.

Blended in base cream

Benzoin oil is a good remedy for dry, cracked skin, cuts and wounds as well as for acne, and irritable and itching skin.

Benzoin oil blends well with

Although essential oils blend well with each other, Benzoin oil goes particularly well with: Bergamot, Coriander, Frankincense, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Myrrh, Orange, Petitgrain, Rose and Sandalwood.