Benzoin Essential Oil - (Styrax benzoin)

Benzoin Essential Oil – softening, warmth and protection

Styrax benzoin – a balsamic touch for the body and inner peace

Benzoin essential oil, obtained from the resin of the tropical tree Styrax benzoin from Sumatra and Thailand, has been renowned for centuries as an oil of comfort, protection and regeneration. Its sweet, vanilla-like aroma creates a feeling of warmth, relaxation and security. In the past it was used to drive away negative energy and to cleanse the body and the home. Today benzoin is often used in nourishing cosmetics, aromatherapy and perfumery – especially for sensitive and dry skin.

Key benefits

• Calms emotional tension and stress

• Creates a feeling of warmth, tenderness and security

• Eases skin inflammation, dermatitis and irritation

• Restores, softens and protects dry and mature skin

• Acts as a natural preservative in cosmetics

Use

For well-being

• In a diffuser: 3–5 drops to create a feeling of security and relaxation

• Inhalation during emotional distress, inner tension or insomnia

• In meditation, evening rituals and support during grieving

For cosmetics

• An ingredient in balms, creams and lotions for dry and sensitive skin

• Used in natural cosmetics as a softener and soothing agent

• An addition to nourishing masks and body oils

For the skin

• Helps in the care of skin prone to eczema, cracks and dermatitis

• Restores and maintains the skin's elasticity and youthful appearance

For the home

• Gives off a pleasant, soft vanilla note

• Blends well with bergamot, coriander, cypress, juniper, lavender, lemon, myrrh, orange, rose and sandalwood

Effects of benzoin essential oil

Benzoin contains benzoic acid, vanillin and cinnamic compounds, which have antiseptic, anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties. Because of these active compounds, the oil is especially suitable for the care of cracked, inflamed and dry skin. Aromatherapists also use it as gentle support during emotional recovery, as it encourages a feeling of safety, focus and inner warmth.

Fragrance note

Base note – warm, sweet, balsamic, vanilla-like

Scientific research and sources

• Kaloustian J. et al. (2008): Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of Styrax benzoin essential oil – Journal of Essential Oil Research

• Shie P.S. et al. (2015): Protective effect of benzoin in skin barrier repair – Molecules Journal

• Norr H. et al. (2021): Traditional use of benzoin in aromatherapy and wound healing – Herbal Medicine Journal

• Damjan Janeš & Nina Kočevar Glavač: Ingredients of Natural Origin (Faculty of Pharmacy)

Not suitable for oral use. Keep out of the reach of children. Use no more than 20 drops of essential oil per day. For use on the skin, mix it into a carrier oil.

INGREDIENTS (INCI): Dipropylene Glycol & Styrax Benzoin Resin Extract, Benzyl Benzoate, Benzyl Alcohol, Benzyl Cinnamate, Vanillin, Cinnamal, Cinnamyl Alcohol, Linalool, Benzaldehyde.

Is benzoin a suitable oil for sensitive skin?
Yes, especially in low concentrations – it is ideal for dry, mature or irritated skin.

Can I use it to scent my home?
Of course – in a diffuser or in blends with other oils it creates a very pleasant atmosphere.

Does benzoin oil contain vanilla?
No, but it contains natural compounds (such as vanillin) that give it a vanilla-like scent.