What is Sandalwood Essential Oil made of?
Sandalwood Essential Oil is extracted from the heartwood of the Santalum album tree, more commonly known as the East Indian Sandalwood tree. This sacred tree is primarily found in the South Indian regions, particularly in the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
The therapeutic properties of Sandalwood Essential Oil are attributed to its key compounds such as α-santalol and β-santalol, which are renowned for their calming, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects.
- Latin Name: Santalum album
- Main Country of Origin: India
- Scent Note Type: Base note with a warm, woody, and rich aroma
- Most Popular Usage: Aromatherapy, Skincare, and Perfumery
What are the benefits of using Sandalwood Essential oil?
Sandalwood Essential Oil offers several potential benefits:
- Relaxation- It promotes a calming environment which can help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Skin Health- Its anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe irritated skin.
- Antioxidant Properties- It helps protect the skin from environmental damage by neutralizing free radicals.
- Memory Booster- It's known to stimulate concentration and improve memory.
How to use Sandalwood Essential Oil?
- Aromatherapy: Add a few drops to a diffuser to create a calming and soothing ambiance in your space.
- Topical Treatment: Dilute it with a carrier oil and apply it to your skin for its soothing and antioxidant benefits.
- Perfumery: Owing to its long-lasting scent, it's often used in perfumes and fragrances.
How to combine Sandalwood Essential Oil with Carrier Oils
Common carrier oils to blend with sandalwood essential oil include jojoba oil, almond oil, and coconut oil. To make a skin-friendly blend, mix 2-3 drops of Sandalwood Essential Oil with a tablespoon of your chosen carrier oil.
To create a relaxing diffuser blend, add 4-5 drops of Sandalwood Essential Oil to the suggested amount of water in your diffuser.
Research based on Sandalwood Essential Oil
"Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Activities of α-Santalol." (2012, mdpi.com): The study suggests that α-santalol, a major compound in sandalwood essential oil, has potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
"Sandalwood Album Oil as a Botanical Therapeutic in Dermatology." (2017, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov): This comprehensive overview discusses the dermatological applications of sandalwood album oil, focusing on its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
"Effects of Fragrance on Emotions: Moods and Physiology." (2000, sciencedirect.com): The study suggests that aromatherapy, including the use of sandalwood essential oil, can have positive effects on mood and physiological parameters like heart rate and blood pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is Sandalwood Essential Oil safe for all skin types?
A: Yes, but it should always be diluted with a carrier oil. A patch test is recommended for first-time users.
Q: Can I ingest Sandalwood Essential Oil?
A: No, Avivni's Sandalwood Essential Oil is intended for topical and aromatic use only.
Q: Is Sandalwood Essential Oil safe for pets?
A: As with any essential oil, use around pets should be done with caution. Always consult a veterinarian before exposing your pet to essential oils. Remember to place diffusers for aromatherapy high up and not near food and water bowls. There are products especially formulated for pets that have been vetted for safety and diluted to the appropriate strength and we suggest you stick with these.
Q: Can Sandalwood Essential Oil be used during pregnancy?
A: Always consult with a healthcare provider before using any essential oils during pregnancy.
Q: Does Sandalwood Essential Oil have a shelf life?
A: Yes, it's best to use it within 2-3 years of opening for optimal benefits.