siam benzoin resin oil

Siam benzoin resin oil is a natural aromatic resin obtained by steam distillation of the gum resin from the tree Styrax tonkinensis. It presents as a viscous, amber-colored liquid with a distinctive balsamic odor profile, medium in strength yet with significant substantivity lasting approximately 400 hours at full concentration. Synonyms for this material include anthostyrax tonkinensis resin oil, styrax hypoglaucus resin oil, and gum benzoin Siam, among others. The oil’s chemical complexity links it within the benzoin resin family, characterized by aromatic constituents derived from natural exudates of Styrax species. This material is sourced primarily from Southeast Asia, especially regions such as Indochina and Thailand, where Styrax tonkinensis is endemic. It is widely recognized in fragrance chemistry and perfumery, registered in controlled vocabularies such as PubChem for unified chemical referencing.

Siam benzoin resin oil originates biologically as an exudate from the bark of Styrax tonkinensis trees, which are native to parts of Southeast Asia. The resin oil is obtained through steam distillation of gum benzoin collected from these trees. Its balsamic odor and fixative properties make it a valued material in fragrance agents and perfuming formulations. According to IFRA (Global), standards guide its use in cosmetic and fragrance applications, emphasizing controlled inclusion levels to ensure safety and efficacy. Its prevalent use is primarily in fine fragrances and aromatherapy products, enhancing depth and longevity in scent compositions. Applications outside perfumery are less common, reflecting specialized utility within aroma chemistry.

The physical and chemical behavior of Siam benzoin resin oil is defined by its solubility and odor characteristics, both critical for formulation. It dissolves readily in alcohol, facilitating its incorporation into alcoholic-based fragrance preparations. In contrast, it is insoluble in water, which limits its use in aqueous solutions without suitable solubilizers or emulsifiers. The balsamic odor has medium strength but remarkable substantivity, making it a persistent fragrance component. These properties influence how the oil is blended within perfume bases, favoring applications where long-lasting scent and compatibility with alcohol solvents are required. The oil’s viscosity and amber coloration, although not quantified here, are also important physical descriptors for quality and sensory perception.

FDA Substances Added to Food (formerly EAFUS):	View
Wikipedia:	View
FAO:	BASIC PRINCIPLES OF STEAM DISTILLATION

Safety information

Hazards identification
Classification of the substance or mixture
GHS Classification in accordance with 29 CFR 1910 (OSHA HCS)
None found.
GHS Label elements, including precautionary statements
Pictogram
Hazard statement(s)
None found.
Precautionary statement(s)
None found.
Oral/Parenteral Toxicity:
Not determined
Dermal Toxicity:
Not determined
Inhalation Toxicity:
Not determined

Safety in use information

Category:
fragrance agents
RIFM Fragrance Material Safety Assessment: Search
IFRA Code of Practice Notification of the 49th Amendment to the IFRA Code of Practice
Recommendation for siam benzoin resin oil flavor usage levels up to:
	not for flavor use.

Safety references

EPA Substance Registry Services (TSCA):9000-72-0

EPA ACToR:Toxicology Data

EPA Substance Registry Services (SRS):Registry

National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases:Data

styrax tonkinensis craib ex hartwiss resin oil

Chemidplus:0009000720