Essential Oil Profile

Sandalwood

Traditional Use: Used in pharmaceutical purposes particularly as a disinfectant for the urinary tract.

Properties: Antidepressant, anti-infectious, antiphlogistic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, bactericidal, carminative, decongestant, diuretic, emollient, expectorant, fungicidal, insecticidal, sedative, tonic

Constituents:  a-Santalol, b-santalol, epi-santalol

Benefits: Acne, anxiety, aphrodisiac, bladder infections, bronchitis, cardiac fatigue, catarrh, cough, cracked and chapped skin, cystitis, depression, diarrhea, dry skin, fluid retention, insomnia, laryngitis, nausea, nervous tension, scarring, sore throat, stress, vomiting. Australian sandalwood can be substituted for Indian sandalwood in most cases. It has the same fixative properties, and the aromas are very similar.

Blends Well With: Benzoin, bergamot, black pepper, chamomile, cistus, clary sage, clove, geranium, grapefruit, fennel, frankincense, jasmine, lavender, lemon, mandarin, myrrh, neroli, oakmoss, orange, palmarosa, patchouli, rose, rosewood, tuberose, vetiver, ylang ylang

Of Interest: While these are only preliminary studies, Sandalwood can be added to skin care formulas -- it has a wonderful aroma, enjoyed by both men and women, and helps hydrate dry skin. Small amounts can be worn 'neat' (undiluted) upon retiring for the evening to reap its potential sleep-enhancing effects. This may be an excellent way of enjoying its stress reducing, or axiolytic action, as well.

The oil is high in sesquiterpenes, a class of compounds which have been studied in Europe for stimulating of the pineal gland and the limbic region of the brain - the center of our emotions. Clarifying and stilling to the mind, and refreshing to an overheated body, Sandalwood is though to reconnect one to the primordial state of being. Diminishing the need to 'overthink', Sandalwood can instill a sense of inner unity, helping re-establish an acceptance of reality as it is.

Safety Data: Generally considered safe.