Botanical Name: Santalum Album, Plant Family of Santalaceae
Aromatic Description: Sandalwood Essential Oil is extracted from various species of the Santalum tree, with Santalum album (Indian Sandalwood), Santalum spicatum (Australian Sandalwood), and Santalum paniculatum (Hawaiian Sandalwood) being the most prominent. It has a rich, creamy, warm, woody aroma with sweet, balsamic undertones, making it a long-lasting and grounding base note in perfumery. The oil is deeply revered for its spiritual symbolism, representing purity, enlightenment, and a sacred connection to higher consciousness. It embodies wisdom, tranquillity, and emotional stability, acting as a symbol of devotion and serenity.
Therapeutically, Sandalwood Essential Oil is renowned for its calming and balancing effects on the mind and body. It alleviates stress, anxiety, and nervous tension while promoting deep relaxation, mental clarity, and focus, making it a valuable oil for meditation and spiritual practices. On a physical level, Sandalwood offers anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial benefits, helping to treat skin conditions like acne and irritation and supporting respiratory health by easing coughs and congestion. It also acts as an aphrodisiac, enhancing intimacy and emotional connection. Spiritually, Sandalwood works with the Root Chakra for grounding and the Third Eye and Crown Chakras for heightened spiritual awareness.
Sandalwood Essential Oil contains several key compounds contributing to its therapeutic and aromatic properties. The major constituents include α-Santalol (up to 50%), which provides anti-inflammatory, sedative, and calming effects. β-Santalol contributes to the oil’s antimicrobial and soothing properties. Other important components include Santalenes, which act as fixatives and help ground the oil’s aroma, and Lanceol, known for its antiseptic and relaxing effects.
This essential oil is commonly used in skincare products, massage blends, and as a fixative in perfumes. It blends beautifully with florals like Rose and Jasmine, citrus oils like Bergamot and Lemon, resins like Frankincense, and earthy oils like Patchouli and Vetiver. The oil is extracted through slow steam distillation of the heartwood, which is often aged for 15 years or more to ensure its high quality. Due to concerns over overharvesting, sustainable and ethical sourcing practices are essential for preserving this sacred oil and ensuring its long-term availability.
Extraction Method: Steam Distilled
Sandalwood Essential Oil
This powerful essential oil can be diluted with carrier oils and used as a topical application or a relaxing Ayurvedic massage. Add few drops of oil to potpourris, vaporizers, candles, or diffusers for combating germs in the air and protecting the environment naturally. It can also be added to your bathtub for an aromatic, healing, stimulating, and energizing bath.