Benzoin
|
Botanical Name |
Styrax benzoin |
|
Family |
Styracaceae |
|
Other Names |
Benjamin, friar's balsam, gum Benjamin. gum benzoin, Palembang benzoin, Siam benzoin, Siamese benzoin, Sumatra benzoin |
|
Description |
Tree up to 20m/65ft high |
|
Native to |
Thailand, Sumatra, Vietnam, China, Java |
|
Part Used |
Root, leaves, fruit, gum |
|
Actions |
Anti-inflammatory, anti oxidant, antiseptic, astringent, carminative, cordial, deodorant, diuretic, expectorant, sedative, vulnerary |
|
Extraction |
Collected direct from tree |
|
Constituents |
Cinnamic, benzoic and sumaresinolic acid esters –coniferyl cinnamate, cinnamyl cinnamate, coniferyl benzoate. Free acids, benzoic acid, cinnamic acid, sumaresinolic acid. Benzaldehyde. Vanillin |
|
Skin conditions |
Cuts, chapped skin |
|
Circulation, muscle joints |
Arthritis, gout, poor circulation, rheumatism |
|
Respiratory |
Bronchitis, asthma, colic, coughs, laryngitis |
|
Immune |
Flu |
|
Other Uses |
Used in incense and to drive away evil spirits |
|
Caution |
Use in moderation |