Latin name: Styrax benzoin
Also know as: benjamin tree, loban, kemenyan, onycha, styrax, benzoin
Origin: India

Styrax benzoin – Styrax

Styrax resin, known for its long history of use in perfumes, incense, and traditional medicine, comes from various species, including those native to southern Arabia. For centuries, Styrax has been highly valued for its unique properties, often burned alongside other resins like frankincense and myrrh. It is believed to have protective qualities, such as driving away snakes during the harvesting of frankincense. This resin has found a place in rituals, aromatherapy, and even in modern incense blends.

Key Benefits of Styrax Resin:

• Fragrance: Styrax offers a sweet, warming aroma with a vanilla-like scent that has resinous undertones. Its rich fragrance is both calming and grounding.
• Properties: This resin is renowned for its ability to open the root chakra, promoting a sense of stability and balance. It’s a popular choice for individuals seeking emotional grounding or a soothing environment.

How to Use Styrax Resin:

• Prepare the Charcoal: Begin by lighting a charcoal disc with a match or lighter. Hold it for about 20 seconds until the charcoal begins to ignite on its own. Use tongs to safely hold the charcoal, avoiding direct contact with your fingers.
• Place Charcoal in a Burner: Place the lit charcoal in a heatproof bowl or incense burner, making sure to fill the container with sand or dirt to keep the charcoal stable.
• Burn Styrax Resin: Allow the charcoal to warm up for a few minutes. When the edges turn gray, it’s ready to use. Add a small amount of styrax resin onto the charcoal. As it burns, it will release aromatic oils through the smoke, filling the space with a calming fragrance.
• Sustained Burn: For a longer-lasting burn, continue to add small amounts of Styrax resin or powder as the smoke decreases. This will allow the scent to linger and provide continuous aromatic benefits.

By incorporating Styrax resin into your routine, whether in spiritual rituals or simple relaxation, you can enjoy its grounding qualities and soothing fragrance, promoting both mental clarity and emotional stability.