Condition
Treatment Support
urinary antiseptic
Application
tincture
Sandalwood
(Santalam album)
Also know as Santalwood
Botanical Information
A small tree of 20 to 30 feet from the Sandalwood family with opposite, smooth leaves, with sprays of small flowers.
Working with Sandalwood
Part(s) Used
Heartwood
Herb Forms
Essential oil, tincture, bulk herb, powder
Christopher Hobbs:
“Sandalwood, which is commonly used in cosmetics and perfumes, has warming and antiseptic qualities. It was widely used in the beginning of the century in commercial cystitis and urinary infection formulas manufactured by Parke, Davis and Co. and others.
Sandalwood has a taste of PUNGENT, AROMATIC and a temperature of WARM.”
Historical Uses
Sandalwood has been utilized for over 4,000 years, particularly in India, China, and the Middle East. It was used in religious rituals, incense, and perfumes, and it was also valued for its supposed healing properties, including the treatment of skin conditions, digestive issues, and as a mild sedative.
Modern Clinical Uses (Herbalists and Naturopaths):
- Skin care:Â Sandalwood oil is applied topically for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, helping with acne, eczema, and other skin ailments.
- Aromatherapy:Â It’s used for relaxation, reducing stress, anxiety, and promoting mental clarity.
- Urinary health:Â Sandalwood oil is sometimes used for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory effects on the urinary tract.
Chemistry and Pharmacology
The key bioactive compounds in sandalwood include alpha-santalol and beta-santalol, which contribute to its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and sedative properties. Studies suggest sandalwood may affect the central nervous system, promote relaxation, and inhibit bacterial and fungal growth.
Clinical Trials
Several clinical trials have explored sandalwood’s potential benefits:
- Anxiety and Stress Relief:Â Studies have shown that inhaling sandalwood essential oil can reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress.
- Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant: Research has demonstrated sandalwood oil’s efficacy in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, supporting its use in skin care and possibly in conditions like arthritis.
- Skin Healing:Â Some trials indicate that sandalwood oil helps accelerate the healing of minor wounds and burns.
- Urinary Health:Â Limited evidence supports its use for urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to its antimicrobial properties.
Conclusion
Sandalwood continues to be a valuable herbal remedy, especially in aromatherapy, skin care, and as an anti-inflammatory agent. However, more rigorous clinical trials are needed to confirm some of its medicinal claims, especially for internal use. As with any herbal product, its use should be approached with caution, particularly regarding dosages and potential allergic reactions.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Toxicity:Â Sandalwood is generally considered safe when used topically or aromatically. However, excessive use may cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Allergic reactions:Â Rare, but possible. Always patch-test before applying topically.
Internal use:Â Not recommended without professional supervision, as some species may have toxic effects when ingested.
Do not use longer than six weeks. Do not use if you have a disease involving the parenchyma of the kidney. Use sparingly as many worldwide populations of this plant have been decimated.
Conditions treated with Sandalwood
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
