Benzoin Siam Resinoid 50

Natural Ingredient Overview

• 🌏 Origin: Laos, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia

• 📂 CAS N°: 9000-72-0

• ⚖️ MW: Not applicable (natural resin mixture)

• 📝 Odor type: Balsamic sweet

• 📈 Odor Strength: Persistent for more than 24h

• 👃🏼 Odor Profile: Sweet, vanillic, soft, warm, delicate, slightly creamy

• ⚗️ Uses: Fixative in perfumery; base material in incense, cosmetics, and bakhoor; flavoring agent

• 🧴 Appearance: Thick dark orange resin in DPG solution; semi-viscous

What is Benzoin Siam?

Benzoin Siam is a natural resin obtained by tapping Styrax tonkinensis, a tree native to Indochina. The fragrant exudate is pathologically produced when the bark is incised. The raw resin, typically collected in hard, yellow-orange tear-shaped pieces, is then extracted with Dipropylene Glycol (DPG) to form a resinoid that is alcohol-soluble and suitable for perfumery.

Its odor is softer and more vanillic than Sumatra benzoin, with less smoky or phenolic character. It is often used in premium incense blends and church liturgy, especially in Orthodox Christian and Gulf Arab cultures.

Olfactory Profile and Perfumery Applications

Benzoin Siam Resinoid is used as a base note and fixative, providing:

• Long-lasting warmth

• Smooth, balsamic sweetness

• Gentle vanillin effect

It is particularly suited to:

• Oriental and amber accords

• Incense-based compositions

• Gourmand fragrances

• Spiced florals and sacred blends

Its soft character makes it easier to blend than Sumatra benzoin. Use levels typically range:

• Fine fragrance: 1–5%

• Incense and bakhoor: Higher concentrations depending on formulation

• Soaps and balms: 0.5–2%

Pairs well with vanilla, labdanum, sandalwood, frankincense, myrrh, and clove.

Industrial and Cultural Uses

Benzoin Siam is widely used in:

• Religious incense: Orthodox, Catholic, Gulf Arab, Indian traditions

• Bakhoor and perfumed wood chips

• Japanese and Chinese incense formulations

• Papier d’Arménie (scented blotting paper)

• Scented candles and cosmetics

• Flavoring in food and drink (unregulated use)

In perfumery, it is often used to stabilize floral and spicy formulas, extending evaporation curves and enriching base notes.

Regulatory and Safety Overview

• IFRA: Regulated under allergen/sensitization framework; limited in leave-on products

• EU Allergens: May contain trace benzyl alcohol and benzoic/cinnamic acids

• ECHA Classification: Not classified as hazardous; skin sensitization possible in high concentrations

• REACH: Registered as natural resin extract

• FEMA: Not currently listed for food use under FEMA

✅ Use within IFRA-compliant limits. Evaluate allergen declaration depending on grade and extract solvent used.

Related Scentspiracy Materials

• Benzoin Sumatra: Harsher, smokier, contains more cinnamic acid

• Labdanum Resinoid: Resinous-leathery base fixative

• Vanillin: Sharper, isolated sweet note; less balsamic

• Tolu Balsam: More rounded and spiced sweetness

Sources

• Arctander, S. (1961). Perfume and Flavor Materials of Natural Origin

• Wikipedia – Benzoin entry (Styrax tonkinensis)

• IFRA Standards Documentation (51st Amendment)

• Internal Scentspiracy Natural Ingredient Archive