Sedative and Calming
Sandalwood oil has calming and sedative properties. Julia Lawless, in her book "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils," cites the use of sandalwood oil to help treat such problems as insomnia, depression and stress. Sandalwood can help induce a meditative state and is often found in churches and temples.
Antiseptic
Patricia Davis, in her book "Aromatherapy: An A-Z," lists sandalwood as an antiseptic oil, particularly as a pulmonary antiseptic oil. Sandalwood oil can be used to treat coughs, sore throats and bronchitis.
Shirley and Len Price, in their book "Aromatherapy for Health Professionals," list the use of sandalwood in the treatment of cystitis and urinary tract infections. However, Patricia Davis warns against using sandalwood oil as a urinary antiseptic without the advice and medical training of a doctor.
Shirley and Len Price, in their book "Aromatherapy for Health Professionals," list the use of sandalwood in the treatment of cystitis and urinary tract infections. However, Patricia Davis warns against using sandalwood oil as a urinary antiseptic without the advice and medical training of a doctor.
Astringent
Sandalwood is astringent and moisturizing, which makes it a beneficial oil for treating both dry and oily skin, as well as acne, chapped skin and dehydrated skin.
Anti-Inflammatory
Sandalwood oil is effective in the treatment of skin inflammations, in addition to treating digestive, circulatory and nervous system complaints, diarrhea, sciatica, neuralgia, insect bites, wounds and poisoning. According to Julia Lawless, sandalwood has been used in Eastern medicine for centuries to treat skin problems, stomachache and diarrhea.
Bactericide and Expectorant
Sandalwood oil has bactericidal and expectorant properties and is used to treat viral infections such as colds and flu and to help relieve coughs, catarrh and sore throats. According to Julia Lawless, Ayurvedic medicine uses sandalwood for respiratory infections.
Aphrodisiac
Sandalwood has aphrodisiac properties. Shirley and Len Price list sandalwood oil as a sexual tonic, particularly in the treatment of impotence. It is often added to perfumes and aftershaves, a practice which has continued for centuries. In addition to its other properties, sandalwood oil can stimulate romance.