Gum Benzamin is also called benzoin resin, gum benzoin or gum benjamin. Gum benzamin is a balsamic resin obtained from the bark of several species of trees in the genus Styrax. Gum benzamin is a common ingredient in incense-making and perfumery because of its sweet vanilla-like aroma and fixative properties. Gum benzamin is a major component of the type of church incense used in Russia and some other Orthodox Christian societies, as well as Western Catholic Churches. There are two common kinds of gum bezamin or benzoin resin, benzoin Siam and benzoin Sumatra. Benzoin Siam is obtained from Styrax tonkinensis, found across Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam. Benzoin Sumatra is obtained from Styrax benzoin, which grows predominantly on the island of Sumatra in Indonesia.

Usage:

In perfumery, gum benzamin is used as a fixative, slowing the dispersion of essential oils and other fragrance materials into the air. Gum benzamin is used in cosmetics, veterinary medicine, and scented candles. It is used as a flavoring in alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages, baked goods, chewing gum, frozen dairy, gelatins, puddings, and soft candy.