====== Benzoin ======
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---- dataentry herbs----
latin_names: Styrax benzoin
folk_names: Ben, Benjamen, Gum Benzoin, Siam Benzoin, Siamese Benzoin
gender_tags: Masculine
planet_tags: Sun
element_tags: Air
deity_tags: 
effect_tags: Purification, Prosperity, Physical energy, Magical energy, Conscious mind
part_tags: essential oil
aroma_hidden: 1
----
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===== Magical Uses =====

Burn benzoin to purify, and add to purification incenses. A fine "clearing" herb.

Make an incense of benzoin, cinnamon and basil, and burn to attract customers to your place of business.

Often used as a base for incenses.

There are two types of Benzoin commonly available: Benzoin Siam and Benzoin Sumatra. They can both be used as described above, but Benzoin Sumatra is better suited for cleansing, while Benzoin Siam is better suited for attraction. Benzoin Siam can be substituted for storax, to which it is related.

===== Aromatherapy =====

This was one of the first fragrances that I worked with in my magical studies. The essential oil possesses a warm, sweet, vanilla-like odor. It is dark, thick and viscous. Unlike most other essential oils, benzoin will leave an oily mark on paper.

The essential oil is inhaled to revitalize the physical body. This is ideal in those times of great exertion when you need an extra few moments of energy.

The increased bioelectrical {physical) energy produced by inhaling benzoin essential oil can be utilized in heavy magical operations, such as the protection of a home or car. Generally speaking, any scent which energizes the physical body also produces a larger reserve of magical power.

As with basil, the scent of benzoin stimulates the conscious mind.
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