Sandalwood oil comes from the wood and roots of the Santalum album, or the sandalwood tree of the East Indies. This is one of the most valuable trees in the world. Its products are used all over the world. Sandalwood oils were also produced from the West Indies and Africa in the past, but they are no longer widely available.
Sandalwood and its oil are appreciated in the field of alternative medicine. It is traditionally used to treat a variety of conditions. Most of its traditional uses have not been scientifically proven, but some research suggests that sandalwood may help treat certain health problems.
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Sandalwood oil has many traditional uses. For centuries, East Indian sandalwood oil has been a popular ingredient in medicine ayurvedic, the popular medicine of India. It has also been used in Chinese traditional medicine (MTC).
In these traditions, sandalwood oil has been used with other therapies to control:
- the common cold
- urinary tract infections
- liver and gallbladder problems
- digestive problems
- muscle problems
- mental disorders
- hemorrhoids
- scabies
Sandalwood’s scent also makes it a popular choice for perfumes and aromatherapy.
In aromatherapy, aromatic oils are used to promote mental and physical health outcomes. Many ancient cultures practiced aromatherapy. It is still popular with some people today.
Few of the traditional uses of sandalwood oil have been proven by modern science.
Some studies have supported the idea that sandalwood has health benefits. For example, research suggests that sandalwood can help:
- increase alertness
- manage anxiety
- support wound healing
- protect against skin cancer
- fight bacteria
Sandalwood Oil Uses
There are many ways to use sandalwood oil in aromatherapy at home. For example:
- apply directly to your skin
- put a few drops in your lotion
- heat it in a small kettle of water to scent your home
- evaporate it using an essential oil infuser
- add it to your bath water
EYE: Some people have allergic reactions to essential oils. These reactions are rare. They most often occur when people apply essential oils directly to their skin.
If you are worried about an allergic reaction, try a small amount of sandalwood oil mixed with a carrier oil or lotion on a small patch of your skin. Wait to see if it reacts before using larger amounts.
Although concrete medical evidence is lacking, sandalwood oil may have many health benefits. More research is needed to confirm the health benefits of sandalwood oil. Meanwhile, the aroma can only be comforting and pleasant. That may be reason enough to try sandalwood oil aromatherapy.