benzoin

[maxwill129]

What is this and is it safe? I recently purchased some soap from a local lady and found out after I got the soap that she used benzoin in her soaps. I'm finding different things on the interent about it- some say it's perfectly safe, others say it's not.

Does anyone know? And if it's not really the best thing to use, can I finish my soap so I don't waste my money without being harmed by it?

[Sadystar]

I think you are talking about the essential oil from Styrax Benzoin. It is a very thick resin and is extracted by solvents, though this is generally considered fine. IMHO as a clinical aromatherapist I would say it is fine for you to use - it is possible to be sensitive to anything, but this is not generally considered an oil which causes problems. I´d be interested to see the links you have found to the contrary.

It has antiseptic properties and is used in skincare for its wound healing properties.
But the BEST thing about Benzoin? The scent, a deep creamy vanilla smell, yum. Go for it.

OH just remembered that there is also a Tincture of Benzoin and whilst this is also generally considered fine, it is slightly more likely to cause sensitisation.

[maxwill129]

Thanks for your help! Here's a link that says it's not safe, basically because it might not be free from toxins:

http://www.aromamedical.com/articles/benzoin.html

I have no idea if this is credible or not, that's one of the reasons I'm asking here!

I will continue to buy locally- which is very important to me, so thanks for replying!!!

[Sadystar]

Hmmmm I looked that up and the name came up in my training....he´s generally considered a bit of a nutbag, though he would say that that´s because he´s talking about stuff that aromatherapists don´t want to hear. Difficult one. I read some of his personal statements on the site, and, well, he did sound a bit of a nutbag! Sometimes zeal can get the better of someone, y´know get carried away in his mission.

To be honest, that raises some interesting points but I wouldn´t be taking his word for it alone. A very boring book I have called "Essential Oil Safety" which is, as far as I know, the only collected reference of safety data wiith regard to both lab tests and hospital reports, raises absolutely no concerns over Benzoin resin.

Perhaps you could inquire about the source of the Benzoin from your supplier, then check that out. But to be honest I wouldn´t worry too much.

[Dovesong]

I use benzoin powder in my soaps as a fixative for certain essential oils. My understanding is that it is good for your skin. I would not use it otherwise. It is a cousin to Myrrh which is great for the skin. The powder does not smell so much like vanilla, but it is still a nice fragrance.

[maxwill129]

The soap that I'm using is a Tea Tree oil acne soap. It seems to be working pretty good so far! And I haven't had any reactions, which is always a good thing. I guess I'm not too concerned anymore. I just get a little nervous when there's an ingrediant in something that I don't know anything about.

Sadystar, I think I will contact the lady that made the soap and ask where she gets it from, although I'm sure it's from a reputable source. The lady that I buy my stuff from has her own organic garden that she uses for her products, so I highly doubt she would buy from someone not "safe".