Industrial packaging of Benzoin absolute oils
Industrial packaging of Benzoin absolute oils Laboratory and warehouse Botany Benzoin

Benzoin

Absolute essence

Industrial packaging > Absolute oils

Absolutes are aromatic extracts obtained through solvent extraction of plant matter or concrete essence. They differ from essential oils because they contain less volatile and heavier fractions, which confer greater olfactory richness and persistence. They are produced primarily when steam distillation is not possible or does not guarantee the desired yield, as in the case of roses. Thanks to their concentration and complexity, they are key raw materials in fine perfumery, cosmetics, soap making, and wax production.
  • Code: T1506
  • INCI: Styrax benzoin
  • CAS: 84929-79-3
  • EINECS: 284-557-7
  • Family: Styracaceae
  • Type: absolute essence (OA)
  • Chemotype: Benzyl benzoate (approximately 65%)
  • Food flavoring: yes (according to EC Regulation 1334/2008)
  • Extraction method: solvent treatment
  • Origin: Sumatra

Extraction

Benzoin absolute is obtained by treating the resin with solvents, which are then removed from the solution. It appears as a brown-orange liquid with an intense sweet-vanilla scent.

Property

A prized aromatic raw material, Benzoin absolute has been known for centuries for its anti-inflammatory, deodorant, and preservative properties.
It blends well with a wide range of oils, particularly Myrrh absolute and the essential oils of Agarwood, Copaiba, Nutmeg, Opoponax, Frankincense, Black Pepper, Sandalwood, and Vetiver.

Uses

Today, benzoin is used both as a component and as a fixative in fragrances that deodorize soaps, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and perfumes.
In fine perfumery, its alcoholic tincture and absolute essence remain indispensable fixatives. Finally, it is also used in the alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage industry as a flavoring ingredient.
The relevant technical and safety documentation for the product is available upon request.

Botany

Native to tropical Asia (Laos, Vietnam, and Cambodia), Benzoin grows into a large tree, up to twenty meters tall, with light green leaves similar to those of citrus fruits. Deep incisions in the stem allow the plant to exude a pathological resin; this secretion hardens upon contact with air and exposure to sunlight, forming solid masses with a characteristic orange-yellow color known as "benzoin gum" or "Java incense."