Ulei de lemn de santal: beneficii, utilizări și de unde să cumpărați

Sandalwood Oil: An Overview

Sandalwood oil has long been prized for its healing qualities. Many civilisations have used it for centuries. It is obtained from the heartwood of the sandalwood tree, a native of Australia, Indonesia and India. All sandalwood trees do not give sandal oil, but Santalum album or Indian sandalwood, and Santalum spicatum, which is Australian sandalwood tab, are mainly used for oil extraction. Sandalwood oil is produced by steaming sandalwood tree wood chips. It is a light yellow to golden yellow liquid with a characteristic woodsy and sweet oil smell.

Success with the body and mind comes with the Sandalwood oil's relaxing and centring properties. Aromatherapy uses it to improve mood, promote relaxation and reduce stress and anxiety. Sandalwood oil is used in healthcare and cosmetic products because of its anti-inflammatory, emollient and antioxidant properties. These products will not only help the skin to be soothed and healed, to reduce the look of fine lines and wrinkles, but to improve the general health of the skin as a whole. Several sandalwood oil varieties are available on the market, and sandalwood trees used to create the oils may vary based on the characteristics and advantages of the oil. Sandalwood oil from Australian sandalwood is often used in skincare products because it is anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. Used for ages, sandalwood oil relishes its medicinal and cosmetic benefits. Because of its unique scent and myriad health benefits, it’s a sought-after ingredient in many products, including soaps, fragrances and skincare.

Origins and Production

The heartwood of the sandalwood tree, predominantly the Indian sandalwood (Santalum album) and the Australian sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) is the source of sandalwood oil. These medium-sized hemiparasitic trees are found throughout the Malay Archipelago, northern Australia, and the tropical zone of peninsular India.  Sandalwood oil is produced using steam distillation of wood chips and billets. Essential Oils are made by heating the wood chips and billets to a temperature where the essential Oil evaporates and condenses.  Sandalwood is one of the world’s most precious plants. Its heartwood contains a fragrant oil that people regard as so precious. The Oil is gathered from the tree's heartwood and used in holy unguents, cosmetics, and fragrances. For over 4,000 years, India has used sandalwood for religious and therapeutic reasons, making it the world's most significant sandalwood oil producer and user. Australia is the world's biggest producer of sustainable sandalwood, and the commodity is a major export.

Cultural Significance

In many Eastern nations, sandalwood oil has long played a significant role in religious and cultural rituals. It is revered and often utilised in religious rites, such as marriage and childbirth. Sandalwood's purity and soothing qualities make it significant in these rituals.

Sandalwood paste is applied to the forehead and other regions of the body during Hindu pujas, which are acts of devotion. The paste is used to improve meditation and is said to have a cooling impact on the body and mind. In Indian wedding customs, sandalwood is frequently applied to the bride and groom as a symbol of their purity and to accentuate their beauty.

Sandalwood oil is used in traditional medicine and religious activities. In the ancient Indian medical system Ayurveda, it is said to have medicinal qualities ranging from antiseptic to anti-inflammatory. It also has relaxing properties that promote relaxation and mental clarity.

Sandalwood's cultural importance is not limited to India. It was previously employed in religious rites and was regarded as a holy tree in Hawaii. However, the over-harvesting of sandalwood has made the tree endangered in Hawaii.

Overall, sandalwood oil's purity and soothing qualities are the foundation of its cultural value. It still plays a significant role in many Eastern cultures, having been used for millennia in religious rites and traditional medicine. 

Aromatherapy and Meditation

The soothing, anchoring, and relaxing qualities of sandalwood oil have led to its use by aromatherapists and meditation practitioners for generations. Sandalwood's pleasant, woodsy scent is believed to uplift the spirit and promote mental clarity. Incorporating sandalwood oil into one's meditation practice could greatly enhance overall well-being. Lighting sandalwood incense gives one a similar feeling. So sandalwood oil can be used on the skin as well as it can be used in the meditation practice. One blends one or more drops of sandalwood oil with a carrier oil and massages the mixture onto the back of the neck or temples, to promote tranquillity and calmness.

What are the Various Health Benefits of Sandalwood Oil?

1.  Enhance Hair Gloss and Health

The shrivelled texture of sandalwood oil has a positive effect in warding off the buildup of oils on the head and encouraging sheen and hair growth. Also, it can also be used to reduce dandruff and scalp irritations due to its anti – inflammatory properties.

2.  Relaxing and Calming

Sandalwood is also used among the oils that people turn to aromatherapy for when they are sad, anxious or stressed as well as lavender and chamomile. A study published in the Journal of Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice compared patients receiving aromatherapy with sandalwood before receiving palliative care with those who did not receive aromatherapy; the first group was calmer and less anxious than the second.

3.  Mental Acuity

It is found that sandalwood has one significant advantage over other woods used in aromatherapy or for the simple pleasure of a pleasant smell. Thus, it is often used in such forms of animism, as meditation and prayer. An evaluation of sandalwood oil's impact on arousal and attention levels was conducted and published in the international journal Planta Medica. According to the study, the primary constituent of sandalwood, santol, produced good evaluations for mood and attention.

4.  Astringent

Due to its modest astringent properties, sandalwood causes little spasms in our skin and gums. Sandalwood is a common component in many aftershaves and face toners, helping to tighten, soothe, and cleanse the skin. If an astringent effect is desired, one might consider adding a few drops of sandalwood oil to natural body care products. Sandalwood oil is frequently used to address dark spots and acne.

5.  Organic Aphrodisiac

Sandalwood is historically used as an aphrodisiac by Ayurvedic physicians. Sandalwood is a natural chemical that stimulates sexual desire, which assists men who are experiencing impotence by boosting libido.  Add a few drops of sandalwood oil to a topical lotion or massage oil as a natural aphrodisiac.

6.  Anti-Inflammatory

Additionally, sandalwood has anti-inflammatory properties that help with moderate inflammation from skin diseases, bug bites, and contact irritants. According to 2014 research, sandalwood's active ingredients, known as santalol, help lower the body's cytokines, which are signs of inflammation. These active ingredients are thought to function similarly to NSAIDs but without possible drawbacks.

7.  Antiseptic and antiviral

Sandalwood is an outstanding antiviral. Preventing the reproduction of common viruses, such as herpes simplex viruses-1 and -2, has been demonstrated to be advantageous.  One of its other applications is reducing inflammation from minor skin irritations, including boils, warts, pimples, and superficial wounds. Just remember to always dilute the oil with a base carrier oil or test the oil on a small patch of skin before applying it directly to the skin. If one experiences a sore throat, one can also gargle with a cup of water infused with a few drops of antiviral sandalwood oil.

8.  Expectorant:

Sandalwood is an excellent expectorant that helps treat coughs and colds naturally. A few drops applied to a washcloth or tissue will lessen the intensity and length of a cough.

9.  Reproductive Tract Infections

The German Commission has authorised the internal use of sandalwood for the supportive treatment of lower urinary tract infections, despite the absence of scientific evidence to substantiate this benefit. For urinary tract infections, the German Commission monograph advises a quarter teaspoon (one to one and a half grammes) of sandalwood essential oil. This therapy is not designed to last more than six weeks, and it must only be administered under a doctor's supervision.

10.  Prevent Ageing

Due to its strong antioxidant content, sandalwood helps lessen the harm that free radicals inflict. It has anti-inflammatory properties by nature. A 2017 scientific study titled "Sandalwood Album Oil as a Botanical Therapeutic in Dermatology" reported that sandalwood oil helps treat molluscum contagiosum, common warts, eczema, psoriasis, and acne organically.  To treat acne and other minor skin issues, mix five drops of sandalwood oil with an unscented lotion and apply it to the face for natural anti-ageing effects.

11.  Anti-Cancer Properties

Alpha-santol, the primary ingredient in sandalwood oil, has been shown via animal model research to have chemo preventive properties. Studies in the lab demonstrate that alpha-santalol decreases tumour incidence and multiplicity in a way that relies on time and concentration.

12.  Beneficial For Reliving Cuts and Wounds

Sandalwood oil's potent antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities help with numerous health issues. Sandalwood oil is known to help reduce inflammation and irritation when used topically. It has also been shown to help heal boils, cuts, acne, and infected wounds. In fact, 2014 German research discovered that sandalwood oil promoted skin regeneration and wound healing.

What are the Various Uses of Sandalwood Oil?

Sandalwood oil has many uses in complementary and alternative medicine. Among the most popular applications for sandalwood oil are:

1.  In Fragrances and Cosmetics

Sandalwood oil has a warm, earthy fragrance and woody aroma and is well-known in perfumery and cosmetics. It has a deep, enduring note smell, which is often found in fragrances. Due to its moisturising qualities, it is used in cosmetics lotions and creams. Sandalwood oil is also used in skincare and acne products because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Even though imperfection doesn't show up in a photograph, it can relieve sensitive skin and make it less visible. Popular as an eczema remedy and in other skin care products, it has soothing, refreshing qualities. It is used in aftershave products because of its antibacterial abilities and calming effects. This minimises shaving side effects and renews skin tone. In perfumery and cosmetics, sandalwood oil is a multipurpose component. The scent and skin care advantages it serves. Being so particular, it’s a favourite for most cosmetic products.

Sandalwood Oil for Scars from Acne

The main active compound in sandalwood oil is alpha-santol, which has strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Sandalwood oil for acne also decreases redness and irritation and helps prevent new outbreaks. It also reduces the effect of scars on the skin by calming.

Combining sandalwood oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut oil and applying a few drops straight to the affected areas can help treat acne scars. You can also combine some sandalwood powder in yogurt or a bit of water as a face mask. Sandalwood oil is very useful to complement any skincare regimen aimed at acne scars, as long-term use helps reduce scars and keep skin healthy.

Sandalwood Oil to Whiten Skin

Santol (found in sandalwood oil) is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory. This substance works to lower inflammation and imperfections to promote more even skin tone. Sandalwood oil can minimize redness and black spots by decreasing inflammation, making the skin look very clean and radiant. Its natural exfoliating properties help get rid of dead skin cells that have collected on the surface of the skin. A healthy, more radiant-looking skin appears right after this exfoliating procedure. Applying it too frequently may improve brightness and texture.  Sandalwood oil is combined with other organic products, such as honey, lemon juice or yoghurt, to make strong face masks. Improving sandalwood oil’s skin-whitening properties while nourishing and hydrating the skin, these concoctions are. Sandalwood oil whitens skin. It can be added to a face mask, with a carrier oil or just a few drops. The skin might brighten and brighter as this is consistent use.  For sensitive skin, a patch test should be done before using this to avoid unnecessary reactions.

2.  In Conventional Medicine

Sandalwood oil is also used because of its many medicinal benefits, and it has been used in traditional medicine for generations. Sandalwood oil is commonly used in Ayurvedic medication as a relaxing and meditation oil because it is believed to calm the body and mind. Additionally, it is used as a home cure for sadness and anxiety.  In traditional Chinese medicine, sandalwood oil is purported to have cooling qualities that lower cold symptoms. It is also used to treat bronchial irritation and urinary tract infections.  Sandalwood oil is also well known for its skin-treating benefits. It is an Ayurvedic medicine used to treat skin disorders like acne, psoriasis and eczema. Some theories suggest that it may also have anti-cancer effects.  Though more studies will be needed to fully grasp its therapeutic benefits, it is a favourite choice for those trying natural answers to many health problems.

What are the Safety Measures and Precautions related to the Use of Sandalwood Oil?

Sandalwood oil has plenty of tradition of use but using it safely and magically is also essential. The following safety and preventative actions must be considered while using sandalwood oil:

- Dilution with Carrier Oil

A very potent essential oil, sandalwood must be diluted before topical use. Almond oil, jojoba oil, coconut oil (and other carrier oils) help decrease the risk of allergic and skin irritant reactions. Sandalwood oil can also be used diluted up to two drops per 10 millilitres of carrier oil.

- Patch Test

Before using sandalwood oil topically, a patch test to rule out allergic reactions or skin sensitivity is advised. To check for any negative responses, apply a small quantity of diluted oil to a small area of the skin and let it sit for a full day.

- Allergic Reactions

Even though sandalwood oil is usually regarded as harmless, some individuals develop rashes, hives, or other allergic responses. If any of these signs appear, stop using the product immediately and, if necessary, get medical help.

People Also Ask

What are the Side Effects of Sandalwood Oil?

When appropriately used, sandalwood oil is typically safe for most individuals. It is a valuable complement to a skincare or aromatherapy regimen if used correctly and cautiously. Always dilute it with a carrier oil, test it on a patch, and watch for any adverse effects or allergic reactions.

What are the Contraindications For Sandalwood Essential Oil?

The only purpose of Sandalwood Essential Oil, like all other New Directions Aromatics products, is external application. Sandalwood Essential Oil is quite concentrated; thus, it must be diluted with a carrier oil before using it topically. It is advisable for women who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication to consult a doctor before using this oil. Those who have just had major surgery must not use this oil. Before taking this oil, those who are more susceptible to heart attacks, strokes, atherosclerosis, severe allergic reactions, or who have any form of pre-existing medical condition must also speak with a doctor.

Topical use of this essential oil can result in allergic responses or skin irritation, headaches, and nausea when inhaled. However, to avoid such reactions, this oil is advised to be tested on your skin through a skin patch test before using it topically and to limit its use for aromatherapy to the suggested concentrations from the beginning.

You need one drop of sandalwood essential oil and four drops of carrier oil. Then, a dime-sized quantity of the mixture must be applied to a tiny patch of skin that is not known to be sensitive. If one has an unpleasant reaction, stop using the product and see a healthcare provider for the best action.

It is not recommended to use sandalwood essential oil in close proximity to the eyes, inner nose, ears, or any sensitive skin regions. This product must always be kept out of the reach of children, especially those under seven.

Conclusion

Sandalwood oil is obtained from the heartwood of the sandalwood tree, a native of Australia, Indonesia and India. All sandalwood trees do not give sandal oil, but Santalum album or Indian sandalwood, and Santalum spicatum, which is Australian sandalwood tab, are mainly used for oil extraction. The soothing, anchoring, and relaxing qualities of sandalwood oil have led to its use by aromatherapists and meditation practitioners for generations. Sandalwood's pleasant, woodsy scent is believed to uplift the spirit and promote mental clarity. It still plays a significant role in many Eastern cultures, having been used for millennia in religious rites and traditional medicine. 

The shrivelled texture of sandalwood oil has a positive effect in warding off the buildup of oils on the head and encouraging sheen and hair growth. Sandalwood is also used among the oils that people turn to aromatherapy for when they are sad, anxious or stressed as well as lavender and chamomile. Sandalwood is a common component in many aftershaves and face toners, helping to tighten, soothe, and cleanse the skin. Sandalwood has anti-inflammatory properties that help with moderate inflammation from skin diseases, bug bites, and contact irritants. It is an excellent expectorant that helps treat coughs and colds naturally.

Sandalwood oil has a warm, earthy fragrance and woody aroma and is well-known in perfumery and cosmetics. It has a deep, enduring note smell, which is often found in fragrances. Due to its moisturising qualities, it is used in cosmetics lotions and creams. The main active compound in sandalwood oil is alpha-santol, which has strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Sandalwood oil for acne also decreases redness and irritation and helps prevent new outbreaks. Sandalwood oil is also well known for its skin-treating, relieving bronchial irritation and promoting wellness of the urinary tract.