Onycha (Benzoin from Styrax) It is mentioned only once in the Bible:
“The Lord said to Moses: Take sweet spices, stacte,[another name for myrrh] and onycha and galbanum, sweet spices with pure incense and make an incense mixed as by the perfumer, seasoned with salt, pure and holy; and you will turn a little to dust, and you will put a part in front of the covenant in the tent of meeting where I will meet you; it will be for you most holy. When you make incense of this composition, you will not make it yourself; you will consider it holy to the Lord. ” Exodus 30: 34-36
Benzoin was used as medicine and as incense in the ancient world. They used it in perfume and mixed it with holy anointing oils, and used it as an ointment to heal wounds on the skin. However, since the 16th century, it has been used as a tincture for respiratory problems and for cuts and skin conditions. To make a tincture, the oil is placed in alcohol. Benzoin is a fairly sticky substance that has a characteristic vanilla-like fragrance. The oil comes from benzoin trees that grow up to 65 feet tall. These are tropical trees that come from places like Java, Sumatra, and Malaysia. To obtain the oil, solvents must be used and then removed from the oil.
How can Onycha (Styrax Benzoin) be used to heal today?
Modern uses for onycha (benzoin) include stimulating kidney production, relieving colic, flatulence, and constipation, and it can help control blood sugar levels. Onycha can be inhaled for sinusitis, bronchitis, colds, cough, and sore throat. It is anti-inflammatory and is used for dermatitis and skin wounds. This oil can relieve stress when used in massage. As a nurse, I used benzoin tincture countless times for wound dressings, and when patients were diaphoretic, I used it to help the tape adhere to the skin.
Onycha can be inhaled, used in massage, and applied topically in wound dressings. It is a non-toxic and non-irritating oil, but some can be sensitive. Want to learn more about this healing oil and many others? Consider becoming a certified aromatherapist. Educational courses on energy healing and aromatherapy can help you understand how essential oils heal the body, mind, and spirit. The Institute for Spiritual Healing and Aromatherapy offers courses throughout the United States.