Santalum album is a small tropical tree, and the traditional source of sandalwood oil. It is native to Indonesia (Java and the Lesser Sunda Islands), the Philippines, and Western Australia. It is commonly known as the true sandalwood, white sandalwood, or Indian sandalwood.Sandalwood has many uses, including in the perfume industry, folk medicine, and religious and cultural purposes. Here are some uses for sandalwood:
Skin
Sandalwood can help reduce the appearance of skin imperfections and promote a healthy complexion. It has antiseptic, astringent, anti-inflammatory, and disinfectant properties that can treat rashes, acne, blackheads, and other skin eruptions. Sandalwood can also help with dry skin due to its lubricating and nourishing properties. Sandalwood oil has exfoliating and astringent properties that can remove tan, dead skin cells, pigmentation, and redness from the skin
Perfume industry
Sandalwood oil is used in perfumes because of its sweet, powerful, and lasting odor.
Soaps, candles, and incense
Sandalwood oil is used in soaps, candles, and incense
Religious and cultural purposes
Sandalwood trees have been cultivated since antiquity for their yellowish heartwood, which plays a major role in many funeral ceremonies and religious rites. In Traditional Chinese medicine, Indian sandalwood is used for healing of a spiritual nature, such as regulating Qi flow and realigning the balance of the spirit.
Food industry
Sandalwood and its powder are used in the food industry, especially in India
Other uses
Powdered sandalwood is used in the paste applied to make Brahman caste marks and in sachets for scenting clothes. White sandalwood contains chemicals that might help prevent the growth of fungus and bacteria. It might also reduce spasms and have relaxation effects.
