Synonyms:
Loban, Sumatra Benzoin.
Biological Source:
It is a balsamic resin obtained by Styrax species. There are two types of
benzoin available in market
1. Sumatra benzoin: It is obtained from Styrax benzoin Dryand or Styrax
paralleloneurus Perkins (Family - Styraceae).
2. Siam benzoin: It obtained from Styrax tonkinesis (Family - Styraceae).
Geographical source:
Sumatra benzoin is produced in trees grown in South Eastern Asia whereas siam benzoin
found in trees grown in Thailand and Vietnam.
Macroscopical characters:
Sumatra Benzoin:
Colour: Grey or greyish brown.
Odour: Characteristic and aromatic.
Taste: Sweet and slight acrid.
Form: Lump or tear form.
Size: Varying size.
Texture: Uneven.
Siam Benzoin:
Colour: Rusty- brown or Yellowish-brown.
Odour: Pleasant and vanilla flavor.
Taste: Sweet and slight acrid.
Form: Hard and brittle masses.
Size: Varying size.
Fracture: Brittle.
Chemical test:
1. To 1 gm benzoin add 4 ml potassium permagnate solution and warm it. Sumatra
benzoin will produce odour of benzaldehyde.
2. Take 2.5 gm benzoin and add 10 ml ether, shake it well and pour few ml (2 to 3 ml) of
extract into porcelain dish. Now add 2 to 3 drops of sulphuric acid into dish. Sumatra
benzoin produces deep brown colour whereas siam benzoin produces deep purple
colour.
Uses:
It is used as irritating expectorant, diuretic and carminative. Externally it is applied as an
antiseptic and protective. It also uses in the form of inhalant in the treatment of upper
respiratory tract infection. It is also used in tincture form. Industrially, it is used in odour
fixation of incenses, soaps, perfumes, cosmetics and other preparation