Benzoin Siam n°3 Gum Laos

Benzoin Laos is the resinous exudation, with a sweet, balsamic fragrance, that is secreted by the Styrax tonkinensis tree. It has no botanical affiliation with styrax of the Americas is produced from Liquidambar styraciflua. Benzoin Laos is also known as benzoin Siam, because, in days gone by, the gum passed through the Port of Bangkok. This large tree – resembling a birch – grows wild in the highlands of Laos, Thailand and northern Vietnam. The tree naturally secretes the resin to protect itself from parasitic attacks. It is therefore common to see benzoin amassed in the holes pierced by insects in the tree’s bark. For the benzoin to be used in perfumery, tappers manually make incisions to stimulate the tree’s resin production. The mature trees aged 10 years or more are those that produce the most gum. The yield per tree totals about 400 to 600 grams per year. Benzoin oozing from the tree takes the form of white, brittle tears, and oxidation can cause them to turn shades ranging from yellowish-brown to ivory-beige. Benzoin Siam has a milky, vanilla-like smell, reminiscent of brown vanilla beans. Benzoin Laos, having an exceptional scent, is the only species used in making fine fragrances.

The incisions, called tapping, are made on the trunk of the tree starting in September, lifting the bark slightly above the cut. The tree trunk is tapped in a number of different places. A tree can produce benzoin for two to three years. The milky benzoin exudation is then harvested in January and February in Laos. Using a machete, the bark holding the tears is gathered and, after being cleaned, the white tears are categorized according to size and color. Only the biggest, lightest tears are classed as top quality (grade 1). Tears of different grades – No. 2, No. 3 and No. 5 – are then sold and shipped in wooden crates.

Advised uses : Aromatherapy, Perfumery, Cosmetic, Alimentary