The Tree House Forest Product Information Sheet

No.81 BENZOIN

COMMON NAME: BENZOIN, GUM BENJAMIN, JAVA FRANKINCENSE

GENUS & SPECIES: Styrax benzoin

FAMILY: STYRACACEAE

FAMILY RELATIONS: GENERAL: The tree from which benzoin is obtained is a native of Southeast Asia in particular the islands of Java and Sumatra. It is a small tree reaching a maximum of 7m in height. The leaves are round and slightly toothed along the edge and it has delicate white flowers.

ECOLOGY: Obviously the benzoin tree is a tropical plant and as such prefers a hot, humid climate. It is most commonly found in alluvial soils along the riverbank.

CULINARY USES: None

MEDICINAL USES: The benzoin resin from which the essential oil is obtained is extracted in a similar way to that of frankincense (thus the Arab name of Java frankincense). The trunk is wounded and the white sap is collected and dried. This method eventually kills the tree after some 20 years. Recommended for use against coughs, itching, arthritis, colds and as a mild sedative. Benzoin has antiseptic qualities that can be used in plasters and bandages. It’s preservative qualities mean it is used in the cosmetic and pharmaceutical industries.