Evidence supporting the use of: Benzoin siam
For the health condition: Blisters
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Benzoin siam, a resin obtained from Styrax tonkinensis, has a long history of traditional use in topical preparations for skin protection and minor wounds, including blisters. In traditional medicine and historical pharmacy, tincture of benzoin—often referred to as "compound tincture of benzoin" or "Friar's Balsam"—has been used for its supposed antiseptic, protective, and film-forming properties. When applied topically, it forms a thin, adherent layer that can help shield delicate or blistered skin from friction and external contaminants. This protective barrier is thought to reduce the risk of infection and promote healing by maintaining a moist environment.
However, there is little direct scientific evidence supporting the efficacy of Benzoin siam specifically for the treatment or prevention of blisters. Most support comes from its historical and anecdotal use in medical and first-aid settings, particularly among athletes and military personnel to reduce friction and protect skin "hot spots." Modern clinical studies on benzoin for blisters are lacking, and its use is largely based on tradition and practitioner experience rather than rigorous scientific validation. Benzoin preparations are still occasionally included in blister care protocols, but recommendations are usually based on expert opinion and historical precedent rather than controlled clinical trials.
Other ingredients used for Blisters
Aloe verachamomile
vitamin E
Zinc
shen-chu
camphor oil
Menthol oil
melaleuca alternifolia
arnica
avens
Agrimony
Alchemilla
American Liverleaf
Allantoin
Alkanna
benzoin
Bletilla
Calendula
cinquefoil
dragon\'s blood
Epidermal Growth Factor
emu oil
Fomes fomentarius
fang-feng
honey
Hydrocolloid
hound\'s tongue
henna
Leptospermum scoparium
marigold
Panthenol
Smooth Alder
Stellaria dichotoma
Sapindus mukorossi
Tea Tree Oil
Violet
Witch Hazel
Zingiberene
Other health conditions supported by Benzoin siam
AbrasionsAbscesses
Afterbirth Pain
Allergies (respiratory)
Anxiety
Arthritis
Asthma
Bites and Stings
Bleeding (external)
Blisters
Boils
Bronchitis
Bruises (healing)
Burns and Scalds
Canker Sores
Cuts
Dermatitis
Eczema
Emotional Sensitivity
Fungal Infections
Glands (swollen lymph)
Headache (general)
Infection
Infection (bacterial)
Infection (viral)
Inflammation
Injuries
Insomnia
Itching
Itching (rectal)
Itching Ears
Kidney Infection
Lesions
Lymph Nodes or Glands (swollen)
Mastitis
Pain (general remedies for)
Poison Ivy or Oak
Psoriasis
Rashes and Hives
Scars / Scar Tissue
Scratches and Abrasions
Skin (dry and/or flaky)
Skin (infections)
Skin Care (general)
Sore Throat
Staph Infections
Stress
Sunburn
Ulcerations (external)
Wounds and Sores