ຢາງຫອມຍານລາວ Lao Benzoin

Benzoin is native to northern Laos which has a global reputation, is found in high level micro climates of 5 provinces in northern Laos

Benzoin is often found in upland rice fallow lands, many farmers facilitate the natural propagation of Benzoin trees in their fallow fields. The flowering and fruiting season of benzoin is between May and October, then farmer tap resin from December until April

Benzoin resin is traded in international markets and prices have increased over time and is sold for 195,000 Kip/kg depending on the grade. Benzoin is a sweetly fragranced oleoresin extracted from the tree stem

• Internationally it is mainly used in high-class perfumes and balms, as a preservation in food processing, tobacco products and in medicines. 
• Aromatherapy uses fragrant oils from benzoin to calm and warm the body.
• It is used for a wide range of medical purposes 
   

High benzoin prices can result in competition for early harvesting of resin resulting in lower quality and prices 

so, it's time to

• support better planning and management of benzoin production areas needs to be strengthened
• Improve the quality of benzoin via establishing participatory guarantee systems linking farmers to end-users
• Explore the potential for registering a “geographical indication” (GI) for Lao benzoin
   

More information: The Lush Life