Loban is a fragrant balsamic resin obtained from the bark of several species of trees in the genus Styrax. Crystals of Loban are burnt in places of worship throughout the Indian sub-continent for the holy, sanctified atmosphere the smoke creates.

The Gum Benzoin tree (Styrax benzoin) is native to the tropical reaches of Java, Sumatra and Thailand. The resin, also called gum benjamin, has a vanilla like aroma and is harvested by making triangular incisions into the tree’s bark to establish a flow, which then hardens into lumps when exposed to air and sunlight. Benzoin is used in the perfume industry as a fixative, slowing the dispersion of essential oils and other fragrant materials into the air.