Sandalwood oil, extracted from the heartwood of the sandalwood tree (Santalum album), is a popular choice in perfumery and aromatherapy. Sandalwood oil is famous for its distinctive sweet, woody, and warm aroma. The sandalwood scent is described as comfortable, calming, grounding, and glamorous!
Sandalwood oil has a long history of traditional use in Ayurvedic medicine, which dates back over 3,000 years and includes both aromatic and topical applications. Sandalwood was traditionally valued for its cooling properties and potential benefits for the skin. It is believed to balance excess heat in the body and has been used topically to address various skin conditions, promote skin health, and deliver a soothing effect.
This essential oil, steeped in tradition, has found its place in the realm of skincare. Let’s explore the enchanting background of Sandalwood oil, the reported benefits of its topical application, and uncover intriguing scientific insights that make it a sought-after elixir for skin health.
History of Sandalwood Essential Oil
Sandalwood oil carries a rich heritage, cherished in various cultures for its captivating scent and potential wellness attributes. Harvested from mature sandalwood trees, this oil is famed for its warm, woody aroma that invokes a sense of calm and tranquility.
Modern Uses of Sandalwood Essential Oil
- Aromatic Bliss: Users often report the aromatic benefits of Sandalwood oil, describing a soothing and grounding effect that helps alleviate stress and promotes relaxation.
- Skincare Elegance: Sandalwood oil is celebrated for its potential skincare benefits, including moisturization and revitalization[1]. Its application may contribute to a radiant and youthful complexion.
- Mood Upliftment: The aromatic profile of Sandalwood is believed to have mood-enhancing properties, making it a favorite in aromatherapy practices to lift spirits and induce a sense of well-being.
- Harmony for the Skin: Many fans appreciate Sandalwood oil for its reported ability to balance and soothe the skin, addressing dryness and irritation.
Research on the Benefits of Sandalwood Oil Applied Topically
- Dermatological Medicine: Sandalwood oil has shown promise in clinical trials for the treatment of acne, psoriasis, eczema, warts, and even some types of skin infections.[1]
- Antioxidant Richness: Sandalwood oil contains compounds with antioxidant properties that may help combat free radicals, contributing to overall skin health. Thanks to the antioxidants Sandalwood oil may help maintain the firmness and structure of your skin and by reducing dryness and replenishing the moisture in your skin helps increase elasticity.[2]
- Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Scientific studies suggest that Sandalwood oil has anti-inflammatory effects, making it beneficial for soothing skin conditions and reducing redness.[1]
- Anti-Microbial Effects: research shows Sandalwood oil has anti-microbial properties[1] which explains why it has been useful in the treatment of acne and other skin conditions[1]
- Hydrating Effect: The moisturizing properties of Sandalwood oil have been explored in research, indicating its potential to hydrate the skin.
Are Sandalwood Essential Oils Right For You?
Individual responses to skincare products vary, and allergic reactions are always a possibility. Before incorporating Sandalwood oil or any new skincare product into your routine, it’s advisable to perform a patch test and consult with a dermatologist, especially if you have sensitive skin or existing skin conditions. Scientific research on the topical application of Sandalwood oil is ongoing, and more studies may provide additional insights into its benefits.
It’s important to note that individual responses to skincare products can vary, and allergic reactions are always a possibility. Before incorporating Sandalwood oil or any new skincare product into your routine, it’s advisable to perform a patch test and consult with a dermatologist, especially if you have sensitive skin or existing skin conditions. Scientific research on the topical application of Sandalwood oil is ongoing, and more studies may provide additional insights into its benefits.
Sandalwood oil is commonly found in:
- Essential Oil: Pure sandalwood oil used for aromatherapy and skincare.
- Face Masks: Facial masks infused with sandalwood for soothing and balancing skin.
- Soaps: Soap bars with the fragrance and benefits of sandalwood for cleansing.
- Moisturizers: Skin moisturizers that include sandalwood for hydration and aroma.
- Body Lotions: Lotions enriched with sandalwood to nourish and soften the skin.
- Creams: Skincare creams containing sandalwood extract for various skin benefits.
- Perfumes: Fragrances that incorporate sandalwood notes for a delightful scent.
- Scrubs: Exfoliating scrubs with sandalwood particles for smoother skin.
Where Can You Find High-Quality Essential Oil Blends With Sandalwood Oil?
You’re in the right place can find Sandalwood essential oil in our ZEN essential oils blend developed by a board-certified holistic nurse to promote promote relaxation and calm while also benefiting your skin.
Sandalwood oil, and Nurse’s Touch products, are not approved by FDA for the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment, or prevention of any disease.
Research Studies Involving Sandalwood Essential Oil:
[1] “Sandalwood album oil (SAO), also known as East Indian sandalwood oil (EISO), is an essential oil distilled from the Santalum album tree and has demonstrated biological activity as an anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, and anti-proliferative agent. Sandalwood album oil has also shown promise in clinical trials for treatment of acne, psoriasis, eczema, common warts, and molluscum contagiosum.” ~ source
[2] “Sandalwood oil contains antioxidants that help maintain the buoyancy and structure of the skin cells. It also reduces dryness and replenishes the moisture in skin, increasing elasticity.” ~ source