For those who don’t know, sandalwood is a plant native to India and is considered a sacred tree. Its wood is fragrant and that is why it is widely used in perfumery and aromatherapy, yielding a perfect oil for massage.
One of the main properties of this plant and its oil is its relaxing action . But they are also used as immune system stimulants.
Another great benefit of sandalwood is its moisturizing effect for dry skin. In addition to acting in the treatment and prevention of some dermatological problems.
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Sandalwood Oil: 6 Benefits
The positive effects of this plant’s oil are a result of its simple composition. Unlike other essential oils, sandalwood is basically composed of a single component, santalol . For you to have an idea, 95% of it is made up of this substance, while the other 5% has a different composition.
1- Protects and takes care of the nervous system
This natural product has a relaxing and sedative effect on the nerves. For this reason, it is very suitable for the treatment of depression, anxiety and stress- related problems .
Furthermore, it is also beneficial in cases such as headaches , nervous tension and insomnia , as it promotes restful sleep and relieves anxious minds. Finally, it is a facilitator of meditation, as is oil of myrrh.
2- Stimulates the immune system
Just as ginger is very suitable for problems such as colds and flu, sandalwood is also suitable. That’s because both have an action called astringent, helping to resolve muscle congestion and strengthen the immune system.
Allied to this action, we can still count on the calming effect . Therefore, the sacred tree of India yields an oil that can be used to treat respiratory infections, dry cough and chronic bronchitis .
3- Fight infections
Other actions of this essential oil are the treatment and prevention of infections. In addition to helping to restore the mucosa already affected by infectious agents, this natural remedy also reduces the risk of these problems.
One of the regions most benefited by these effects is the genitourinary tract, referring to the genital and urinary organs. For this reason, treatments for cystitis and gonorrhea can be fortified with sandalwood.
Also contributing to these benefits are the antiviral, antimicrobial and antifungal properties that are present in the Indian plant. They are responsible for combating the most diverse types of disease-causing microorganisms, such as viruses, bacteria and fungi .
4- Protects the liver
Santalum album L, scientific name of the plant, has hepatoprotective activity. Many medications can overload the liver, causing the organ to lose its natural functionality.
Acetaminophen, when taken in excess, is an example of these remedies that attack the organ. But when we talk about liver protection , we are referring to the protection the liver receives against these chemicals.
5- Helps in the prevention of degenerative diseases
Cancer, diabetes and Alzeimer’s disease are some of the diseases considered degenerative. But to understand the preventive action of sandalwood oil on these diseases, it is necessary to understand what antioxidant activity means.
Every day, our body receives a huge demand for free radicals, whether due to pollution, inadequate nutrition or even high exposure to sunlight.
Free radicals are molecules considered unstable, as in normal amounts they are harmless to the body, but when in excess they can attack our healthy cells, thus causing an oxidation process.
Therefore, antioxidants act to block the offensive action of these molecules, preventing their attack and protecting the integrity of cells.
The diseases mentioned at the beginning of this topic can be caused by this attack. Therefore, one way to avoid them is to use antioxidant products or foods on a daily basis.
In the specific case of cancer, the oil in question also has an antiproliferative effect . That is to say, it helps to stop the development and multiplication of tumor cells.
6- Take care of skin health
Men and women can enjoy this benefit as the oil is suitable for any skin type. In the case of oily skin , it is best to use it on acne.
However, it is even more effective on skins that lose moisture easily. Therefore, those who suffer from dry skin can take advantage of its emollient, soothing, moisturizing and refreshing properties.
Among the effective treatments with this product are cracking, sensitivity, inflammation or dryness. It can also relieve eczema and psoriasis.
In addition to treating inflammatory and eruptive diseases in the epidermis, sandalwood oil is also indicated to aid in the treatment of skin cancer. This is because it manages to reduce the multiplicity of tumors in this region.
How to use it in aromatherapy?
Aromatherapy allows you to use natural products in different ways such as massages, baths, seats , ointments, compresses, etc. In all these external variations, sandalwood oil is welcome and can be used alone or with others.
It can also be applied as an aftershave or cream. But another important role is through inhalation , mainly to treat respiratory problems.
Here is a tip on how to enjoy the benefits of this massage oil!
Anti-Stress Mix Recipe
- 20 ml of grape seed oil
- 5 drops of sandalwood
- 3 drops of lavender
- 2 drops of orange oil.
Mix all the oils and massage your shoulders, back and even your feet. Both topical use and inhaling the scent of this recipe will help reduce stress.
Other uses: perfumery and incense
As it is known as fragrant wood, the plant can be used in the preparation of other products such as perfumes and incense. Both have a characteristic smell of sandalwood and in the latter case, it is perfect for activating meditation.
Can sandalwood hurt?
In sensitive people it can cause skin irritation. Therefore, it is recommended to do a test on a small part of the body, and only then apply where desired.
The use of sandalwood oil in pregnant and lactating women is uncertain, which is why it should not be used during these periods.
My name is Ellie Lauderdale, MD and I am USA based professional Nutritionist .
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board certified specialist in sports dietetics who is trained in integrative medicine. I have worked with hundreds of clients, from those suffering with chronic disease to professional and olympian athletes. My goal is to help optimize you from the inside so that you can feel, perform, and look your best on the outside.