Sandalwood (Santalum Austrocaledonicum)

Plant description

A small evergreen parasitic tree with a brown grey trunk and smooth slender branches.

History

One of the oldest perfume materials with at least 4000 years of use. Often used in traditional incense, perfume and as an embalming oil throughout the East. Wood is often used in building temples and for cremations. In India Sandalwood is mixed with Rose oil to produce the famous Aytar scent.

Botanical Family

Santalaceae

Key constituents

Santalols, santene, teresantol, santalene, bergamotol, lanceols, nuciferolsMain therapeutic propertiesAnti-depressant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, carminative, diuretic, expectorant, insecticidal, sedative.

Main therapeutic uses

Acne, dehydrated skin, bronchitis, catarrh, coughs, laryngitis, nausea, cystitis, depression, insomnia, nervous tension and stress related conditions.

Blends well with

Rose, Violet, Clove, Lavender, Black Pepper, Bergamot, Rosewood, Geranium, Labdanum, Benzoin, Vetivert, Patchouli, Myrrh and Jasmin.

Safety data

Non toxic, non irritant, non sensitising.

Additional information

Sandalwood from India is severely restricted and has become difficult to obtain a good quality oil that has not been adulterated. Other varieties are available but care should be taken in choosing as East Indian Sandalwood (Amyris balsamifera) bears no botanical relation to the Santalum family.Sandalwood produced on the Vanuatu Islands (Santalum Austrocaledonicum) is produced with both ethical concerns for the local people and environmental issues to ensure the minimum of damage is caused whilst producing a high quality oil from sustainable sources.