This fragrant benzoin (Styrax benzoin) powder comes from Sumatra. For those who make their own incense blends and sticks, the powdered form makes this a little easier. Benzoin resin has a sweet, balsam-like fragrance resembling vanilla. It does not have a very pleasing aroma by itself but when mixed with other ingredients, it develops into a wonderful aromatic pleasure. It has long been used an incense ingredient by many civilizations and known in Europe during the middle ages as "Friar's Balsam." The natural gum is collected from deep incisions made into the tree trunk, which hardens on exposure to the air and is collected. Benzoin is warm, relaxing and calming and is popular in the evening mixed with sandalwood. It has been known to stimulate imagination and creative work. 

Medical Disclaimer: Our expertise lies in incense making and fragrance. Information contained on these pages is solely for your enjoyment. We can not provide medical advice or recipes as we are not health professionals. Before ingesting anything that is not food, we strongly suggest seeking counsel from a licensed health practitioner.

See also:

Benzoin Resin Sumatra

Benzoin Resin Superior