Sandalwood
Sandalwood or Svetchandan is also known as Srigandha as per Ayurveda. It is one of the oldest and most precious sources of natural fragrance with immense medicinal and commercial significance.
Sandalwood tea helps in managing the liver and gallbladder problems due to its hepatoprotective property. Mental problems might also be improved by consuming Sandalwood tea.
Sandalwood oil has various benefits for the skin. Topical application of Sandalwood oil on the face helps promote skin cell growth. Generally, it is considered as the best remedy for headaches when applied in the form of paste or oil. Inhalation of Sandalwood oil also helps to manage respiratory infections that work by reducing the inflammation in the lung airways due to its anti-inflammatory property.
As per Ayurveda, Sandalwood has Sita (cold) property, so individuals sensitive to cold should take Sandalwood under medical supervision. It is also advisable to avoid the excess intake of Sandalwood as it might cause gastrointestinal disturbances[2][25].
Sandalwood tea helps in managing the liver and gallbladder problems due to its hepatoprotective property. Mental problems might also be improved by consuming Sandalwood tea.
Sandalwood oil has various benefits for the skin. Topical application of Sandalwood oil on the face helps promote skin cell growth. Generally, it is considered as the best remedy for headaches when applied in the form of paste or oil. Inhalation of Sandalwood oil also helps to manage respiratory infections that work by reducing the inflammation in the lung airways due to its anti-inflammatory property.
As per Ayurveda, Sandalwood has Sita (cold) property, so individuals sensitive to cold should take Sandalwood under medical supervision. It is also advisable to avoid the excess intake of Sandalwood as it might cause gastrointestinal disturbances[2][25].
What are the synonyms of Sandalwood?
Santalum album, Srikhanda, Svetchandana, Sandale Avyaj, Chandan, Sukhad, Safed Chandan, Shrigandhamara, Shrigandha, Chand, Chandanam, Chandana maram, Sandanam, Ingam, Gandhapu Chekka, Manchi Gandham, Tella Chandanam, Sriga, Sandal Safed[1].
What is the source of Sandalwood?
Plant Based
Benefits of Sandalwood
Modern Science View
Sandalwood oil might be beneficial in preventing Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs). It has an antibacterial property that inhibits the growth and multiplication of the bacteria in the urinary tract. It also has a diuretic property that helps flush out toxins from the body by increasing the frequency of urine[6][7][19][25].
Ayurvedic View
Urinary tract infection is described under the broad term of Mutrakcchra in Ayurveda. Mutra means ooze and krichra mean painful. Thus, dysuria and painful urination are called Mutrakcchra. In the case of urinary tract infection, Sandalwood oil helps to control the burning sensation. This is because of its Mutral (diuretic) and Sita(cold) properties. It increases urine flow and reduces the symptoms of UTI like a burning sensation during urination.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil in urinary tract infection
1. Take a few drops of sandalwood oil.
2. Mix it with one teaspoon of raw sugar.
3. Have it to get quick relief from the symptoms of UTI.
4. Please ensure the purity of sandalwood oil before consuming it.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil in urinary tract infection
1. Take a few drops of sandalwood oil.
2. Mix it with one teaspoon of raw sugar.
3. Have it to get quick relief from the symptoms of UTI.
4. Please ensure the purity of sandalwood oil before consuming it.
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available to support the role of Sandalwood in managing sore mouth and throat. However, gargling with diluted Sandalwood oil might help in managing sore throat[24].
Ayurvedic View
Sore mouth and throat is a condition which occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta dosha. Sandalwood oil helps manage sore mouth and throat due to its Pitta balancing and Sita (cold) properties. These properties help to balance the aggravated Pitta dosha and reduce soreness of the mouth and throat.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil
1. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil.
2. Dilute it with water.
3. Gargle once or twice a day with it to get rid of the symptoms of sore mouth and throat.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil
1. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil.
2. Dilute it with water.
3. Gargle once or twice a day with it to get rid of the symptoms of sore mouth and throat.
Modern Science View
Fever is a condition which occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta dosha which leads to increased body temperature. Sandalwood helps manage fever due to its Pitta balancing property. It also reduces body heat due to its Sita (cold) properties.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil in fever
1. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil.
2. Mix it with one teaspoon of raw sugar.
3. Have it to get quick relief from the symptoms of fever.
4. Please ensure the purity of Sandalwood oil before consuming it.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil in fever
1. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil.
2. Mix it with one teaspoon of raw sugar.
3. Have it to get quick relief from the symptoms of fever.
4. Please ensure the purity of Sandalwood oil before consuming it.
Ayurvedic View
Sandalwood oil is used in the management of fever due to its antipyretic property. It lowers body temperature and thus reduces fever[2][28].
Modern Science View
Sandalwood powder might help in the management of Liver problems due to its hepatoprotective property. The antioxidants present in Sandalwood helps fight against free radicals and prevents liver cell damage. It also helps in the easy removal of gallstones from the gallbladder and thus manages gallbladder associated problems[25][26].
Ayurvedic View
Tips for using Sandalwood powder for liver problems
1. Take 1-3gms of Sandalwood powder (Edible) or as directed by the physician.
2. Have it with water or honey before taking meals to improve the functions of the liver.
3. Please ensure the purity of Sandalwood powder before consuming.
1. Take 1-3gms of Sandalwood powder (Edible) or as directed by the physician.
2. Have it with water or honey before taking meals to improve the functions of the liver.
3. Please ensure the purity of Sandalwood powder before consuming.
How effective is Sandalwood?
Insufficient evidence
Fever, Liver disease, Sore throat, Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Precautions when using Sandalwood
Advice from Experts
Important
Ayurvedic View
It is advisable to ensure the quality of Sandalwood before using it for medicinal purposes as it might contain certain adulterants.
Modern Science View
Sandalwood, when consumed in high doses, might lead to certain problems like gastrointestinal disturbances. So, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Sandalwood[5].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Since enough scientific evidence is not available about the use of Sandalwood during breastfeeding. So, it is advisable to avoid the use of Sandalwood during breastfeeding[3].
Patients with kidney disease
Modern Science View
It is advisable to avoid the use of Sandalwood in patients having kidney problems as it has nephrotoxic property. It might cause further damage to the kidney in such patients[3][5].
Pregnancy
Modern Science View
It is advisable to avoid the use of Sandalwood or consult a physician before using Sandalwood during pregnancy[3].
Side Effects
Modern Science View
Nausea
Upset stomach
Blood in urine[3].
Upset stomach
Blood in urine[3].
FAQs about Sandalwood precautions
How to use Sandalwood
1. Sandalwood Powder
a. Take 1-3gms of Sandalwood powder (Edible) or as directed by the physician.
b. Have it with water or honey before taking meals to improve the function of the liver.
c. Please ensure the purity of Sandalwood powder before consuming.
2. Sandalwood Oil
a. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil or as directed by the physician.
b. Mix it with one teaspoon of raw sugar.
c. Have it to get quick relief from the symptoms of UTI.
d. Please ensure the purity of Sandalwood oil before consuming.
a. Take 1-3gms of Sandalwood powder (Edible) or as directed by the physician.
b. Have it with water or honey before taking meals to improve the function of the liver.
c. Please ensure the purity of Sandalwood powder before consuming.
2. Sandalwood Oil
a. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil or as directed by the physician.
b. Mix it with one teaspoon of raw sugar.
c. Have it to get quick relief from the symptoms of UTI.
d. Please ensure the purity of Sandalwood oil before consuming.
Benefits of Sandalwood
Ayurvedic View
Common cold is a condition that occurs due to an imbalance of Kapha dosha. This imbalance leads to the formation and accumulation of mucus in the respiratory pathway and obstructs it. In Spite of being Sita (cold) in nature, Sandalwood helps manage common cold due to its Kapha balancing property. Inhaling Sandalwood oil or rubbing it on the affected area prevents the formation of mucus in the respiratory tract and provides relief in the common cold.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil in common cold
1. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix it with olive oil or coconut oil.
3. Gently rub or massage on the affected area once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of common cold.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil in common cold
1. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix it with olive oil or coconut oil.
3. Gently rub or massage on the affected area once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of common cold.
Modern Science View
Sandalwood is found to be beneficial in managing dry cough due to its Demulcent and soothing properties. It helps in forming a soothing film over the mucous membrane of respiratory passages. It also promotes the secretion and removal of sputum from the respiratory passages and helps ease breathing due to its expectorant property. The steam inhalation of Sandalwood oil or rubbing a vapour rub containing Sandalwood on the chest might help in relieving cough[7][23].
Ayurvedic View
Cough is a condition which occurs due to an imbalance of Kapha dosha. This imbalance leads to the formation and accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract and creates an obstruction in it. In Spite of being Sita (cold) in nature, Sandalwood helps manage cough due to its Kapha balancing property. Inhaling Sandalwood oil or rubbing it on the affected area prevents the formation of mucus in the respiratory tract and provides relief in cough.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil in cough
1. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil or as per your requirement
2. Mix with olive oil or coconut oil
3. Gently rub or massage on the chest once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of cough
Tips for using Sandalwood oil in cough
1. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil or as per your requirement
2. Mix with olive oil or coconut oil
3. Gently rub or massage on the chest once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of cough
Modern Science View
Sandalwood oil might help in Bronchitis due to its anti-inflammatory property. It reduces the inflammation of the respiratory passages. It also has an expectorant property which promotes the secretion and removal of sputum from the respiratory passages. Inhalation of Sandalwood oil might help ease breathing and manage respiratory problems[7][27].
Ayurvedic View
Bronchitis is a condition which occurs due to an imbalance of Kapha dosha. This imbalance leads to the formation and accumulation of mucus in the respiratory tract and creates an obstruction in it which further disturbs breathing. In Spite of being Sita (cold) in nature, Sandalwood oil helps manage bronchitis due to its Kapha balancing property. Inhaling steam containing Sandalwood oil prevents the formation of mucus in the respiratory tract, ease breathing and provides relief in bronchitis.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil in bronchitis
1. Take few drops of Sandalwood oil.
2. Mix it with water and make steam in a vaporizer.
3. Inhale this steam once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of bronchitis.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil in bronchitis
1. Take few drops of Sandalwood oil.
2. Mix it with water and make steam in a vaporizer.
3. Inhale this steam once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of bronchitis.
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available for the use of Sandalwood in headaches. However, Sandalwood oil or paste had been used to manage headaches[29].
Ayurvedic View
Headache is a symptom which occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta dosha. Sandalwood helps manage headache due to its Pitta balancing and Sita (cold) properties. It reduces the headache and provides a cool and calming effect.
Tips for using Sandalwood powder
1. Take 3-6gm of Sandalwood powder or as per your requirement.
2. Mix it with a small quantity of camphor.
3. Rub them in rosewater.
4. Apply this paste on the forehead to get relief from headache.
Tips for using Sandalwood powder
1. Take 3-6gm of Sandalwood powder or as per your requirement.
2. Mix it with a small quantity of camphor.
3. Rub them in rosewater.
4. Apply this paste on the forehead to get relief from headache.
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific is not available for the role of Sandalwood in heatstroke. However, it might help in reducing body heat associated with heat stroke due to its soothing properties[11][12].
Ayurvedic View
Heatstroke is known as Ushntaap or Anshughat in Ayurveda. According to Ayurveda, in the case of heatstroke, it is the Pitta dosha that gets aggravated. Applying Sandalwood oil on the body helps reduce the symptoms of heatstroke due to its Pitta balancing property. It also reduces the burning sensation and gives a cooling effect.
Tips for using Sandalwood in Heatstroke
1. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with olive oil or coconut oil.
3. Gently rub or massage on the body once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of heatstroke.
Tips for using Sandalwood in Heatstroke
1. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil or as per your requirement.
2. Mix with olive oil or coconut oil.
3. Gently rub or massage on the body once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of heatstroke.
Modern Science View
Sandalwood oil might help manage anxiety due to its soothing property. It calms down the central nervous system and manages the symptoms of anxiety[2].
Ayurvedic View
Sandalwood oil helps to reduce the symptoms of anxiety when used in aromatherapy. It has a pleasant smell which gives a calming and relaxing effect and reduces the symptoms of anxiety.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil in anxiety
1. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil or as per your requirement.
2. Use it in aromatherapy to get rid of the symptoms of anxiety.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil in anxiety
1. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil or as per your requirement.
2. Use it in aromatherapy to get rid of the symptoms of anxiety.
How effective is Sandalwood?
Insufficient evidence
Anxiety, Common cold, Cough, Headache, Inflammation of the airways (bronchitis), Stroke prevention
Precautions when using Sandalwood
Advice from Experts
Important
Ayurvedic View
It is advisable to ensure the quality of Sandalwood before using it for medicinal purposes as it might contain certain adulterants.
Allergy
Modern Science View
Topical application of Sandalwood might cause skin allergies or hyperpigmentation on exposure to sunlight[4][16].
Side Effects
Modern Science View
Itching
Dermatitis[4]
Dermatitis[4]
FAQs about Sandalwood precautions
How to use Sandalwood
1. Sandalwood Oil
a. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil or as directed by the physician.
b. Mix it with water and make steam in a vaporizer.
c. Inhale this steam once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of bronchitis.
2. Sandalwood Powder
a. Take 3-6gm of Sandalwood powder or as per your requirement.
b. Mix with plain or rose water to make a paste.
c. Apply it on the affected area once a day to get rid of the headache.
a. Take a few drops of Sandalwood oil or as directed by the physician.
b. Mix it with water and make steam in a vaporizer.
c. Inhale this steam once or twice a day to get rid of the symptoms of bronchitis.
2. Sandalwood Powder
a. Take 3-6gm of Sandalwood powder or as per your requirement.
b. Mix with plain or rose water to make a paste.
c. Apply it on the affected area once a day to get rid of the headache.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Sandalwood powder does not expire. However, its colour and odour might change with time, if not stored properly, due to moisture.
Modern Science View
Sandalwood oil is commonly used as a fragrance enhancer. It has a warm, woody odor. It is used in incense, cosmetics and perfumes. It has a pleasing aroma that calms the mind by relaxing the central nervous system. This property of Sandalwood acts as a powerful aid in meditation.
Modern Science View
The sweet scents of Sandalwood oil make it a good pairing for floral essential oils like Lavender and Jasmine. Sandalwood also blends well with citrus oils like Bergamot or Grapefruit. You can also blend Sandalwood essential oil with warm, spicy oils like Frankincense.
Modern Science View
Yes, Sandalwood oil can be consumed in prescribed quantities. However, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Sandalwood oil. Sandalwood oil due to its cooling property might help in managing certain problems like burning urination and cystitis[3][6].
Modern Science View
Yes, Sandalwood Oil might aid in weight loss as it has carminative properties. It helps relieve flatulence and might improve the overall digestive system. In addition, stress is one of the major causes of weight gain. Sandalwood oil provides a calming effect in stressful conditions due to its sedative properties and thus, helps in weight loss by avoiding overeating[7][8].
Modern Science View
Yes, Sandalwood is safe for babies and children. It can be used in various remedies for children. However, it is advisable to consult a physician before using Sandalwood in children[9][13].
Modern Science View
Yes, Sandalwood is good for the body as it has various medicinal properties. It soothes the mind and calms down nervousness and anxiety due to its antidepressant properties. It also helps in maintaining a restful sleep as it has sedative properties. It is beneficial in managing bronchitis, coughs and sore throat due to its expectorant property[7][10][27].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Sandalwood is good for the body as it helps to reduce stress and gives calming effects on the nervous system due to its pleasant aromatic smell. Consuming Sandalwood help manage certain burning or acidic conditions due to its Sita (cold) nature. Besides these benefits, it also prevents cough and cold due to its Kapha balancing property in spite of being Sita (cold) in nature.
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available to support the role of Sandalwood for fertility.
Modern Science View
Yes, Sandalwood might help in removing kidney stones as it has diuretic property. It increases the production and frequency of urine which helps in easy removal of the kidney stones from the body[19].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Sandalwood might be beneficial in case of kidney stones due to its Mutral (diuretic) property. It helps increase urine production which leads to easy removal of kidney stones through urine.
Modern Science View
Yes, Sandalwood might help in acne. It has an astringent property which controls oil production and prevents acne breakouts. It also has antiseptic and soothing properties which help in managing skin irritations[11][12].
Ayurvedic View
Acne is a condition which generally occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta and Kapha dosha and leads to the bump or swelling in the affected area. Sandalwood helps manage acne due to its Pitta-Kapha balancing and Sita (cold) properties. It prevents the occurrence of acne, reduces the bump or swelling and provides a cooling effect on the affected area, thus providing relief.
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Sandalwood in skin whitening.
Modern Science View
Yes, Sandalwood oil can be applied to the skin as it helps in various skin conditions. It is useful for healing cuts, wounds, skin irritations, itching, psoriasis and eczema due to its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties[14].
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Sandalwood oil can be applied to the skin. It helps manage certain skin problems like itching or inflammation generally associated with acne and pimples. These problems arise due to imbalanced Pitta-Kapha doshas. Sandalwood helps in managing these problems due to its Pitta-Kapha balancing properties by reducing the symptoms and preventing further damage.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil
1. Take a small amount of Sandalwood oil or as per your requirement
2. Add mustard oil or olive oil in twice the quantity of Sandalwood oil.
3. Apply it on pimples or acne to see better glowing skin.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil
1. Take a small amount of Sandalwood oil or as per your requirement
2. Add mustard oil or olive oil in twice the quantity of Sandalwood oil.
3. Apply it on pimples or acne to see better glowing skin.
Modern Science View
Although enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Sandalwood in skin bleaching. However, Sandalwood due to its healing property might help to heal and reduce any types of scars, dark spots or pigments. It also has anti-ageing property due to which it helps in providing flawless skin[15].
Tips for using Sandalwood powder
1. Add 3-6gm Sandalwood powder, 2 tablespoons milk and 1 teaspoon glycerin in a clean bowl.
2. Mix well until a smooth paste is obtained.
3. Apply all over the face and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Rinse it off with water.
5. Apply thrice a week to get smooth glowing skin.
Tips for using Sandalwood powder
1. Add 3-6gm Sandalwood powder, 2 tablespoons milk and 1 teaspoon glycerin in a clean bowl.
2. Mix well until a smooth paste is obtained.
3. Apply all over the face and let it rest for 30 minutes.
4. Rinse it off with water.
5. Apply thrice a week to get smooth glowing skin.
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Sandalwood in causing skin darkening. However, some people might experience scar or hyperpigmentation on exposure to sunlight after applying Sandalwood[16].
Modern Science View
Yes, Sandalwood oil is good for oily skin. It has an astringent property which helps to tighten the skin pores and prevents oiliness[17].
Modern Science View
Yes, Sandalwood essential oil might help in dark circles and puffiness around eyes. It has moisturizing, reviving and anti-inflammatory properties that helps in managing dark circles[18].
Tips for using Sandalwood oil
1. Add a few drops of Sandalwood Oil to a pot of hot water.
2. Lean and cover your face with a towel to absorb and inhale all the steam.
Tips for using Sandalwood oil
1. Add a few drops of Sandalwood Oil to a pot of hot water.
2. Lean and cover your face with a towel to absorb and inhale all the steam.
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the role of Sandalwood in causing acne. In fact, Sandalwood oil might help in reducing acne due to its astringent and cooling properties[20].
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available to show the role of Sandalwood in causing hair fall. Instead, some studies state the Sandalwood oil might help in promoting hair growth by stimulating the growth phase of hair follicles[21].
Modern Science View
No, Sandalwood oil does not clog pores. In fact, it is astringent in nature which helps in tightening the pores and prevents their clogging[22].
Modern Science View
Concentrated sandalwood essential oil should be mixed with moisturizer and applied to the face for soft skin.
Ayurvedic View
Sandalwood powder or oil can be applied after mixing with some carrier substance. People with normal skin can mix the powdered form with rose water and form a paste like consistency. After that, gently apply this paste on the face. Whereas, the concentrated or undiluted Sandalwood oil should be mixed with Almond or Olive oil before applying to the face. This is done to avoid any harsh reaction on the skin.
Modern Science View
Yes, Sandlewood can help in the fading of scars or dark spots. Just make a paste of the sandalwood and apply it evenly on your face. Keep it for 15 minutes and wash it off. It will keep your skin hydrated and glowing.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, Sandalwood can help to remove dark spots. Sandalwood has Varnya (improve skin complexion) property which helps to get spot-free and glowing skin.
Modern Science View
Yes, Sandalwood oil is good for hair. It helps with dry ends and also adds fragrance to the hair. Add a few drops of an essential oil and mix one or more types in a shampoo or conditioner. You can even mix the drops with some carrier oil and apply to the hair.
Modern Science View
Red and white both types of Sandalwood are beneficial for the skin. They both offer almost similar medicinal properties. The difference in the color is due to the type of soil being used to cultivate the tree. Red Sandalwood takes a much longer time to grow hence its supply is low which makes it slightly more expensive than white Sandalwood
Modern Science View
Sandalwood oil is great for providing moisture to the skin. This makes it a perfect ingredient for hydrating dry and flaky skin. You can also use Sandalwood powder, but it has a drying effect so it would be best for dry skin people to mix it with some oil like olive oil or Jojoba oil.
Ayurvedic View
Sandalwood oil is very effective for dry skin because it helps to reduce excessive dryness and gives an instant glow when applied to the affected skin.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.