Guenther describes this oil distilled from the resin as having an odor that is “very rich, balsamic-sweet, floral and somewhat spicy, reminiscent of lilac, hyacinth, etc.”
In total honesty, my nose did not detect these notes.... I found the aroma balsamic, resinous, sweet, and totally delightful! I do not detect the floral notes, however.
I have seen Liquidamber (Styrax) recommended for various skin conditions, ringworm, scapies, cuts, etc. but I would be very cautious using it on broken skin because of the potential for sensitization. I have also seen it recommended for as a bronchial decongestant, and think it would be helpful in an blend for inhalation.
Where it really shines, though, is in perfumery. A sweetly-scented fixative, even when used in very very low proportions of a blend.
Emotionally this ancient oil is said to ease stress and anxiety and calm anger. I personally find it both relaxing and uplifting.
This balsam (or gum/resin) accumulates in pockets of the trees, so, unlike most oils distilled from resins, no incisions in the bark or other damage need be done to harvest the tree's bounty. It is believed to be one of the Biblical “balm of gilead” plants.
Caution: Because of its sensitizing potential, IFRA suggests that the final concentration of Styrax extracts or distillates (resinoids, absolutes, oils) from exudates shall not exceed 0.6% in the finished product. See Certificate of Analysis and GC/MS here.
BLENDS WITH: florals, Cassie (Mimosa), Violet, Lavender, Rose, with coumarins, linalool, Ylangylang, Jasmine, etc.
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