The wood of the sandalwood tree, known botanically as Santalum album, has been used in the making of furniture, buildings and incense for 4,000 years. But overuse means the tree now is almost extinct. According to the Eden Project in the UK:
"Sandalwood ... is a very slow-growing parasitic tree native to seasonally dry areas of southern India with harvesting controlled by the Indian government--with some difficulty."
Properties of Sandalwood Oil
The oil is extracted from the heartwood of the tree by steam distillation. It is considered non-toxic, non-irritant and non-sensitizing, which means it is safe to use in all aromatherapy applications, though it should never be taken internally. Sandalwood has a musky, woody aroma and is a warming, nurturing and comforting oil. It blends well with geranium, rose, lavender, bergamot, mandarin and frankincense.
Sandalwood for Colds, Flu and Coughs
According to Esoteric Oils, sandalwood oil is "very useful for any chest complaints as it has a pronounced effect on the mucus membranes." Massaging the throat with a blend of the oil with sweet almond oil will ease a sore throat and clear the larynx of mucus. Sandalwood is often called the "singer's oil" for its beneficial effect on the throat and larynx. Inhalation will also help the wheezing of asthma and other chronic bronchial infections.
Sandalwood for the Body
Using sandalwood in massage, bathing or inhalation in aromatherapy carries many benefits. It is an antiseptic, particularly in urinary and respiratory infections, and can also be used as both a tonic and a sedative. It is bactericidal and repels insects. Says Penny Rich, in her book "Practical Aromatherapy": "A few drops in a hot bath will cleanse both mind and body."
Sandalwood for Beauty
Says Ali Headeach, aromatherapist from Margate, UK: "The oil is useful for a number of physical conditions and helps healing in all systems of the body." It is often used in cosmetics, particularly men's aftershave, soaps and cologne. As a skin treatment, it is good for acne and dry, cracked and chapped skin.
Sandalwood for the Mind and Spirit
A synergistic blend of two drops of sandalwood and four drops of lavender in a warm bath eases mental stress and burnout. The calming effect of sandalwood helps erratic emotions and mood swings and is a good oil for PMT, particularly when blended with geranium and clary sage. Sandalwood as incense has long been used as an aid to meditation. It increases spiritual awareness and enhances intuition. According to "The Essential Oils Handbook" by Jennie Harding, sandalwood: "fortifies an inner resolve to persevere through emotional changes."