It is useful for all the family, particularly during the winter months when it is ideal for use in steam inhalations as well as in baths or massage blends for dry or weather-worn skin. 

In a steam inhalation, try blending with 1 each of Eucalyptus (especially Eucalyptus Radiata for children), Tea Tree or Frankincense.

As a treat for weather-worn skin, add 2 drops each of Benzoin, Lavender and Orange to a jar of unfragranced cream or to 10ml of Sweet Almond oil and massage in thoroughly.

The two main types of Benzoin are Siam (styrax tonkinensis) and Sumatra (styrax benzoin). The Sumatran type is much cheaper to produce and coarser than the superior Siam quality. We offer the superior Siam type.

As Benzoin is a resinoid, it comes in solid form. We use an odourless diluent - benzyl benzoate (a natural constituent of benzoin) - to liquefy it so that it is practical to use.  Even diluted to 40%, it can still solidify easily and the bottle may be warmed in the hands or in warm water before use.

We source this oil from Siam (the old name for Thailand).

It is Steam distilled from the resin.