Sandalwood, Australian Essential Oil

Botanical Name: Santalum spicatum

This spicatum species of Sandalwood is a relatively short (3-8 meter) parasitic tree. It is native to the dry inland regions of Western and South Australia where it grows in diverse communities of other trees that it relies on for its nutrients.

This essential oil is created by steam distilling the heartwood of Sandalwood trees wild grown and sustainable harvested in Australia.

NOTE: It is common to find oils distilled from the wood of S. lanceolatum and Eremophila mitchelli to be sold in the marketplace labeled as "Sandalwood" essential oil, however neither the aromatic compounds and medicinal attributes are similar similar enough to true Sandalwood to act as a substitute.

This Sandalwood oil has a softer aroma compound than the austrocaledonicum or album varieties. It has a mildly mandarin blossom and jasmine top note, a soft, herbaceous middle note and musty, syrup-like and musk-like undertones. It remains a masculine scent, yet this variety and distillation leans into a rounder and more floral composition.

Sandalwood makes a wonderful natural perfume without any blending, yet it will harmonize well with: Eucalyptus radiata, Basil, Peppermint, Vanilla, and Pine Oil.

Sandalwood is used extensively in natural perfumery as a base note and fixative; it also acts to harmonize other aromas without overpowering them.

Long before its therapeutic qualities were known, Sandalwood essential oil was used in yogic and other meditative practices to harness stillness of mind, and unity of being. A history of 4,000 years of use, Sandalwood essential oil is one of the oldest known perfume components. It has also been employed in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries as a skin tonic and mental balancing agent.

Antibacterial, Antidepressant, Antifungal, Antiphlogistic, Antiseptic (urinary and pulmonary), Antispasmodic, Aphrodisiac, Astringent, Carminative, Cictrisant, Diuretic, Expectorant, Insecticidal, Sedative, Tonic. (See Definitions.)

Psychological:

• Can induce, improve the quality and regulate sleep cycles
• Shown to enhance dream activity and recall capacity
• Counteracts depression
• Useful in mental aspects of sexual dysfunction or anxiety about intimacy (physical and non)
• Sandalwood oil is high in sesquiterpenes, a class of compounds which have been studied in Europe for stimulating of the pineal gland (responsible for regulating the sleep cycle) and the limbic region (emotional center) of the brain.

Dermatological:

• Relieves acne
• Balances epidermal oil production (dry or greasy skin)
• Calms eczema
• Relives rashes

Nervous System:

• Calms and balances energy

Respiratory System:

• Treats chronic bronchitis
• Quells persistent coughing
• Treats laryngitis
• Soothes and treats sore throats

Circulatory System:

• Increases and regulates blood pressure and flow

Digestion:

• Relieves diarrhea
• Calms nausea

Anti-cancerous:

Sandalwood oil has been studied in relation to skin cancer and UVB radiation exposure. It was indicated that Sandalwood has a significant effect in reducing the potential of skin cancer development and growth.

Topical:

• The anti-anxiety and sleep enhancing effects can be easily utilized simply by placing a drop on the wrists and massaging until it is absorbed. The essential oil will naturally diffuse into the bloodstream.
• Its anti-anxiety action also supports the immune system: immune cells have receptor sites for neuro-chemicals which implies that a healthy nervous system (one free from stress) can lead to a healthy immune system.
• Sandalwood can be added to skin care formulas as a hydration agent for dry skin at 1-5% concentration in carrier oils such as jojoba or rosehip. Small amounts can be worn 'neat' (undiluted) upon retiring for the evening to reap its potential sleep-enhancing effects. This is a way to experience its axiolytic (stress reducing) effects as well.

Sandalwood essential oil is non-toxic, a non-irritant and non-sensitizing. If pregnant or considering using the oil for self-medication purposes, consultation with a physician is recommended.