Definition

Noun: 1. A gum resin obtained from certain trees, used historically in medicine and perfumery: Specifically, gum benjamin refers to a fragrant gum resin, also known as benzoin, exuded from trees of the genus Styrax. It has been used traditionally as a topical treatment for skin irritations and as an ingredient in incense and perfumes.

Usage Examples

• The old apothecary jar was labeled "gum benjamin" for making healing salves.
• Gum benjamin, when dissolved in alcohol, creates a tincture known as benzoin tincture.

Advanced Usage

• "Compound tincture of benzoin": A common pharmaceutical preparation that includes gum benjamin, used as a topical antiseptic and skin protectant.
  • The nurse applied compound tincture of benzoin to the area before securing the bandage.

Variants and Related Words

• Benzoin (n): The more common modern term for gum benjamin.
• Gum benzoin (n): A direct synonym for gum benjamin.
• Styrax (n): The genus of trees from which this resin is harvested.

Synonyms

• Benzoin
• Gum benzoin
• Benjamin (archaic)

Notes on Meaning

• The term "gum benjamin" is largely archaic in modern English. In contemporary contexts, especially in pharmacy and botany, the substance is almost exclusively referred to as benzoin.
• It is important not to confuse this substance with the modern element or compound named "benzene" or the food flavoring "vanillin," which are chemically distinct.

Noun

1. gum resin used especially in treating skin irritation