Benzoin/ˈbɛnzoʊ.ɪn/ or benjamin (corrupted pronunciation)[1] is a balsamicresin obtained from the bark of several species of trees in the genus Styrax. It is used in perfumes and some kinds of incense and as a flavoring and medicine (see tincture of benzoin). It is distinct from the chemical compound benzoin, which is ultimately derived chemically from benzoin resin; the primary active ingredient of benzoin resin is actually benzoic acid, not benzoin.
Benzoin is sometimes called gum benzoin or gum benjamin,[2] and in India Sambrani orloban, though loban is, via Arabiclubān, a generic term for frankincense-type incense, e.g., fragrant tree resin.[3][4] The syllable "benz" ultimately derives from the Arabic lubān jāwī (لبان جاوي, "frankincense from Java").
There are two common kinds of benzoin, benzoin Siam and benzoin Sumatra. Benzoin Siam is obtained from Styrax tonkinensis, found across Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Benzoin Sumatra is obtained from Styrax paralleloneurus (syn. Styrax sumatranus) and Styrax benzoin, which grows predominantly on the island of Sumatra.[6][7] Unlike Siamese benzoin, Sumatran benzoin contains cinnamic acid in addition to benzoic acid.[8] In the United States, Sumatra benzoin is more customarily used in pharmaceutical preparations, Siam benzoin in the flavor and fragrance industries.[9]
In perfumery, benzoin is used as a fixative, slowing the dispersion of essential oils and other fragrance materials into the air.[7] Benzoin is used in cosmetics, veterinary medicine, and scented candles.[8] It is used as a flavoring in alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, baked goods, chewing gum, frozen dairy, gelatins, puddings, and soft candy.[10]
In anesthesia and surgery, it is used as an adhesive to secure wound and catheter dressing and is available as a sterile preparation. [11]
See also
Friar's Balsam – Pungent solution of benzoin resin in ethanolPages displaying short descriptions of redirect targets