Benzoin

• Overview
• Uses
• Side Effects
• Precautions
• Interactions
• Dosing

Benzoin is the sap (gum resin) of trees that belong to the Styrax species. Don't confuse benzoin with Siam benzoin (Styrax tonkinensis), which is used only in manufacturing and not as a medicine.

People take benzoin by mouth for swelling (inflammation) of the throat and breathing passages.

Some people apply it directly to the skin to kill germs, reduce swelling, and stop bleeding from small cuts. Benzoin is also used topically for skin ulcers, bedsores, and cracked skin. In combination with other herbs (aloe, storax, and tolu balsam), benzoin is used as a skin protectant. This combination is known as “compound benzoin tincture.”

By inhalation, benzoin is used to treat hoarseness (laryngitis), croup, and other respiratory conditions.

In dentistry, benzoin is used for swollen gums and herpes sores in the mouth.

In manufacturing, benzoin is used in making pharmaceutical drugs.

How does work?

There is some evidence that benzoin might act as a skin protectant, and also help to break up chest congestion by thinning mucous and making it easier to cough up (expectorant).

SLIDESHOW

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Insufficient Evidence to Rate Effectiveness for...

• Swelling (inflammation) of the throat and airways.
• Hoarseness (laryngitis).
• Croup.
• Skin ulcers.
• Bedsores.
• Cracked skin.
• Other conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate the effectiveness of benzoin for these uses.

There is some evidence that benzoin might be safe for use as a medicine when taken by mouth or applied to the skin. Not enough is known about the safety of inhaling it.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Not enough is known about the use of benzoin during pregnancy and breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Benzoin allergy: People who are allergic to benzoin break out in a rash when they use it.

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LithiumInteraction Rating: Moderate Be cautious with this combination.Talk with your health provider.

Benzoin might have an effect like a water pill or "diuretic." Taking benzoin might decrease how well the body gets rid of lithium. This could increase how much lithium is in the body and result in serious side effects. Talk with your healthcare provider before using this product if you are taking lithium. Your lithium dose might need to be changed.

The appropriate dose of benzoin depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for benzoin. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using.

QUESTION

Next to red peppers, you can get the most vitamin C from ________________. See Answer