Benzoin (small lumps, light orange-yellow, reddish-brown when aged, brittle and easily broken with luster)

Benzoin (embedded with yellow-grey-white almond-like granules)

【Naming】

Benzoin

 【Source】

Newly Revised Materia Medica

 【Common Use Level】

F

 【Origin】

Dried resin of Sumatra Benzoin tree Styrax benzoin Dryand or Thailand Benzoin tree Styrax tonkinensis (Pierre.) Craib of the Styracaceae family.

 【Characteristics】

It is a mass of spherical granules pressed together, of varying sizes, with a reddish-brown to grey-brown exterior. It is embedded with yellow-white and grey-white opaque almond-like granules. The surface is rough and uneven. It is hard and brittle at room temperature, softens when heated, and produces an irritating gas. It has an aromatic odor and a slightly pungent taste.

 【Identification】

Universal Relief Prescriptions: “Good Benzoin is transparent and free of sand and stones.” Classified Collection of Effective Prescriptions: “When Benzoin is burned, cover it with thick paper, and the real one will allow smoke to penetrate.” Compendium of Materia Medica: “Ji said: Some say that the true one can attract rats when burned.” Essentials of Materia Medica: “Some say it comes from the country of Anxi, a kind of water benzoin, which is the most difficult to obtain, and its effect is doubly better.” It is best if it is oily, contains yellow-white granules, has a fragrant taste, and is free of impurities.

 【Category】

Resins