Benzoin gum, also known as benzoin resin and gum benjamin, is obtained from
the benzoin tree, a shrub-like member of the Styrax genus native to the
rainforests of Southeast Asia. However, it takes some time to harvest. In
fact, the tree must mature for seven years before the resinous substance can
be extracted.
Although the name benzoin gum continues to stick, it is technically
incorrect since it cannot be classified as a polysaccharide. In fact, up to
75% of the volatile oils in benzoin gum contain amorphous resins, with the
balance being composed of benzoic acid. Another clarification worth
mentioning is that whether you call it benzoin gum or benzoin resin, it
clearly differs from benzoin, which is a crystalline organic compound.
Other constituents found in benzoin gum include cinnamic acid, styrene, and
vanillic acid. The latter component is what lends benzoin gum its characteristic
vanilla-like scent. This quality doesn't translate to its taste, however, which
is quite bitter and unpleasant in its raw form. The exotic scent does make
benzoin gum a fragrant addition to perfumes and incense, where it also provides
fixative and preservative properties. In fact, it is a common ingredient in fine
Indian, Japanese, and Chinese incense, as well as in the Armenian incense papers
known as Papier d'Arménie.
However, here again, some clarification is in order.
There are two basic grades of benzoin gum: Siam and Sumatra. The former is used
as a flavoring and fragrance agent. There is also a sub-grade of Sumatra benzoin
known as Penang. The basic difference between them all is the amount of milky
white resinous material it contains, as well as the amount of bark remnants.
Superior quality is determined by more of the first and less of the second. So,
from highest to lowest, quality is ranked in this order: Siam, Sumatra, Penang.
Although raw benzoin gum can impart a bitter taste on the tongue, small
quantities are used as a natural flavoring in many foods, including
beverages, dairy products, baked goods, candy, and various processed foods.
It is also used in the cosmetic industry as an additive to soaps, lotions,
and various personal care products formulated for the skin and hair.
An old-fashioned French beauty treatment calls for benzoin tincture and rose
water to produce a facial wash known as Virgin's Milk. Reputedly, this
formula gives light-skinned women a porcelain-like appearance due to the
mixture's milky coloring. If you're feeling experimental, the ratio for
Virgin's Milk is a tablespoon benzoin tincture to one ounce of rose water.
Formulas & recipes
Benzoin gum powder uses
The powder is used as a fixative in some incense and potpourri mixes, as well as a flavoring for baking and other foods, and as preservation in cosmetic goods. Benzoin powder soap making is an instance where benzoin gum powder is used as a fragrance fixative. Meaning, gum benzoin keeps the scent from evaporating, keeping perfumes and other beauty products smelling better for longer.
Benzoin powder soap making
Add ½ teaspoon to 1 teaspoon to whatever soap, or potpourri recipe you follow, and the benzoin will keep the fragrance of the mix from evaporating.
Health benefits
Gum benzoin benefits
Using a gum benzoin tincture is common for small face sores, like canker sores. Gum benzoin can also protect the skin from irritation or infection. While gum benzoin is used for aromatic purposes in cooking, the topical health benefits are endless. Gum benzoin tinctures act as a great natural alternative to products that use harsh chemicals to treat the face and skin.
