Benzoin

Benzoin is an aromatic resin obtained from the balsam tree species of the genus Styrax, mainly from Styrax benzoin and Styrax tonkinensis. This resin has been used for centuries in various cultures for medicinal, ritual, and cosmetic purposes. In modern use, Benzoin is primarily found in perfumery, aromatherapy, and naturopathy.

What benefits does Benzoin offer?

Benzoin is valued for its versatile properties and is used for various traditional treatments. Benzoin is said to be able to offer several potential health benefits. Studies partially support the effects. As always, however, the studies should be viewed critically to see which results are readily transferable:

  • Wound healing: Benzoin is traditionally used to treat wounds and skin irritations. It has antiseptic properties and could potentially promote healing and prevent infections. (1,2,3)
  • Anti-inflammatory effect: Some studies have been able to link benzoic acid to an anti-inflammatory effect (4).
  • Antioxidant properties: Studies were able to associate an active compound in benzoic acid with an antioxidant effect (5).
  • Calming effect: In aromatherapy, Benzoin is used to promote relaxation and to relieve stress and anxiety. Its sweet scent is said to have a calming and mood-lifting effect. However, the body of studies here is very limited.
  • Respiratory conditions: Benzoin is said to have expectorant properties, which is why it is used for colds, coughs, and other respiratory conditions. It is said to help loosen mucus and ease breathing, but here too, more research is needed before one can speak of facts.
  • Skin care: Benzoin is sometimes used in skin care, especially for the treatment of dry, cracked skin (6).

How does Benzoin work?

The health effects of Benzoin are attributable to its chemical components:

  • Benzoic acid and esters: These compounds give Benzoin its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties (1,2,4).
  • Cinnamic acid: It contributes to the resin's antimicrobial effect and supports skin health (6,7).
  • Vanillin: Gives Benzoin its characteristic sweet scent and has antioxidant properties that can contribute to cell health (5).

Side effects and risks

Although Benzoin has long been used in various cultures, side effects can occur in some individuals:

  • Skin irritations: In rare cases, Benzoin can cause skin irritations or allergic reactions. A skin test before use is recommended.
  • Respiratory irritation: In sensitive individuals, inhaling Benzoin vapors can cause respiratory irritation.
  • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use Benzoin only after consulting a doctor, as the effects have not been sufficiently studied.

Conclusion

Benzoin is a versatile resin with numerous traditional and modern uses. It is valued for its calming, healing, and caring properties. When used properly, Benzoin can be a valuable addition to naturopathy and aromatherapy. Nevertheless, it should be used with caution, especially in sensitive individuals or during pregnancy.

Sources:

  1. Printsevskaya, S. S., Reznikova, M. I., Korolev, A. M., Lapa, G. B., Olsufyeva, E. N., Preobrazhenskaya, M. N., Plattner, J. J., & Zhang, Y. K. (2013). Synthesis and study of antibacterial activities of antibacterial glycopeptide antibiotics conjugated with benzoxaboroles. Future medicinal chemistry, 5(6), 641–652. https://doi.org/10.4155/fmc.13.16
  2. Budiana I Gusti M. Ngurah et al 2020 J. Phys.: Conf. Ser. 1503 012027
  3. Dudek-Wicher, R. K., Szczęśniak-Sięga, B. M., Wiglusz, R. J., Janczak, J., Bartoszewicz, M., & Junka, A. F. (2020). Evaluation of 1,2-Benzothiazine 1,1-Dioxide Derivatives In Vitro Activity towards Clinical-Relevant Microorganisms and Fibroblasts. Molecules, 25(15), 3503. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules25153503
  4. Tjahjono, Y., Karnati, S., Foe, K., Anggara, E., Gunawan, Y. N., Wijaya, H., Steven, Suyono, H., Esar, S. Y., Hadinugroho, W., Wihadmadyatami, H., Ergün, S., Widharna, R. M., & Caroline (2021). Anti-inflammatory activity of 2-((3-(chloromethyl)benzoyl)oxy)benzoic acid in LPS-induced rat model. Prostaglandins & other lipid mediators, 154, 106549. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.prostaglandins.2021.106549
  5. Kumar, S., Nair, R., & Prakash, B. (2023). Comparative analysis of antioxidant potential of vanillin and ferulic acid in vitro. Food and Humanity, 1. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.foohum.2023.09.014
  6. Gunia-Krzyżak, A., Słoczyńska, K., Popiół, J., Koczurkiewicz, P., Marona, H., & Pękala, E. (2018). Cinnamic acid derivatives in cosmetics: current use and future prospects. International journal of cosmetic science, 40(4), 356–366. https://doi.org/10.1111/ics.12471
  7. Ruwizhi, N., & Aderibigbe, B. A. (2020). Cinnamic Acid Derivatives and Their Biological Efficacy. International journal of molecular sciences, 21(16), 5712. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms21165712