Sandalwood as an Herb

(Santalum album)

Sandalwood is from a small tree that grows 20 to 30 feet high, with many opposite slender drooping branches, the bark a smooth grey-brown.

Indian Sandalwood is a Government monopoly.

Sandalwood is much used as a perfume for different purposes. The wood is used for making fancy articles and is much carved.

Medicinal Uses for Sandalwood

The vital oil extracted from the sandalwood was used extensively as an important medicine till the period between 1920 and 1930. During this period, the sandalwood oil was primarily used internally as an internal medication to treat urinary as well as genital disorders and externally as an antiseptic.

Sandalwood oil is used to cool the body during fevers and heat stroke. It is also used to aid in the passing of kidney and gall stones, and for infections in the urinary tract. Used internally in chronic bronchitis, a few drops on sugar giving relief.

In aromatherapy, Sandalwood is used to calm and relax, and for meditation. It has been used as an aphrodisiac, by using the oil for perfume. Considered to be a deep relaxant and stimulant of psychic centers.

Sandalwood Oil is used in perfumery and in the diffusor. Used in blends for compress and for massage.

Culinary

Generally not recommended.

Cautions

As the sandalwood oil is very potent, it is advisable not to use it without carrier oil.

Although the essential oil extracted from sandalwood is not known to have any serious side effects, sometimes people have complained of moderate skin irritation following the external application of sandalwood oil.

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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Some plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals. Some plants used for illness in the past have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.