sandalwood (Santalum album)

Character Persistent, sensuous

Sandal wood, or Bois de Santal is distilled from heartwood of an evergreen Indian tree which is parasitic on other trees. Sandalwood has been popular for centuries in furniture and casket making, as well as incense, and was used to build Indian temples. The ancient Egyptians used Sandalwood in embalming and medicines. It is valued as incense today in India, China and Japan. In India it has strong spiritual connotations being burned at wedding and funerals; it is also used medicinally for genitor-urinary problems. Believed to encourage self-expression, Sandalwood is very helpful for laryngitis and sore throats. It is exceptionally long lasting, and is used as a fixative in perfumes.

Aroma Warm, rich, sweet, woody

Properties Antiseptic, antispasmodic, aphrodisiac, astringent, carminative, diuretic, healing, regenerative, relaxing, soothing, tonic.

Physical conditions Eliminatory system Alleviates cystitis, lymphatic decongestant

Hormonal system A sensual stimulant, it can be helpful with sexual problems

Immune system Boosts immune deficiency characterised by persistent infections

Nervous system Very relaxing for nervous tension

Respiratory system Useful for laryngitis, chest, throat and lung infections, bronchitis and dry cough

Skin Good for aging, dry skins; relieves itching, inflammation and dry eczema. Antiseptic for acne, boils cuts and wounds

Mental/emotional conditions Balancing for people who are possessive and manipulative, who like their own way; for difficulty in forgiving; for those who do things for others but fear lack of return. Helpful with obsessional attitudes, worry about past and future, feeling unsupported. Brings peace and acceptance. May be helpful for sexual anxiety.

Other uses An aid to meditation and spiritual development, associated with the 'third eye' and development of intuition.

Applications Bath. Face oil/lotion. Facial steaming. Inhalation. Massage. Room fragrance.

Blends well with Cypress, Frankincense, Lavender, Lemon, Ylang Ylang.