Benzoin

Benzoin, a fragrant gum-resin obtained from Styrax Benzoin, the Benjamin tree, a native of Siam, Sumatra, Borneo, etc. It is obtained by incisions, each tree yielding about three pounds weight annually. It is used in bronchitis, etc., forming a principal ingredient in "Friar's Balsam;" but it is chiefly employed as incense in the Greek Church. The name is also applied to a genus of Lauraceae.