Sandalwood can be found in essential oils in a number of different varieties. Though each has its own special characteristics, sandalwood itself is known for properties as a tonic substance, sedative, memory booster, hypotensive, expectorant, emollient, disinfectant, diuretic, carminative, cicatrisant, astringent, antispasmodic, antiphlogistic, anti-inflammatory, and as an antiseptic.
Origins of Sandalwood
Sandalwood has long maintained respect and dignity throughout the world in many religions and civilizations. This is particularly applicable in the Hindu religion because it is considered indispensable and holy in almost every one of their ceremonies and rituals. It maintains a place of honor from the very first days of an infant’s life through a person’s death. All along the way, in this religion, Sandalwood is a requirement. The Hindus mix it with ceremonial offerings such as flowers to be offered to their goddesses and gods. Sandalwood essential oils are also used upon the foreheads of the deceased and in the embalming of bodies.
Popular Uses of Sandalwood
Sandalwood essential oils and a type of paste made from them can be found in numerous beauty and skin treatments which are commercially produced. These can include creams, lotions, soaps, perfumes, deodorants, and even mouth fresheners.
Additionally, these essential oils exhibit incredible medicinal properties. Some people may apply these essential oils topically or burn them in the form of incense sticks for use them with diffusers and as air fresheners. When blended with certain other oils, sandalwood is particularly popular among aroma therapists. If you are mixing these essential oils with others, some common blends can include ylang ylang, vetiver, rose, myrrh, lavender, geranium, black pepper, and bergamot.
Health Benefits of Sandalwood
Individuals wishing to enjoy the health benefits of sandalwood essential oils may wish to use them for the following: improving concentration and memory; helping in the treatment of infections involving the urinary tract, and to boost the immune system. They have also been beneficial to those wishing to lose weight, strengthen muscles and gums, and to heal spots or scars on the skin. These essential oils have been used to treat issues that are associated with spasms and may help others to lower the levels of cholesterol which are considered bad.
As an anti-inflammatory, they are not only beneficial to the excretory, circulatory, and nervous system but can offer relief from insect bites, poisoning, fever, and can act as a powerful antibiotic.
A Look at Sandalwood Essential Oils
These essential oils are derived from pieces of wood through steam distillation. The wood comes from sandalwood trees which are exceedingly mature. This means that the trees are usually between 40 years old to 80 years old, but trees in excess of 80 years old are highly preferred. The reason being, a stronger aroma and more oil can be derived from the older trees. As mentioned earlier, there are a number of varieties of sandalwood essential oils, each with their own particular characteristics. Overall, however, they all exhibit characteristics typical to basic sandalwood.
Here at Plant Guru, we offer the benefit of being able to achieve a healthy mind, body, and soul through natural essential oils – no chemicals, no gimmicks, no high-pressure sales. Our Australian and our East Indian Mysore Sandalwood essential oils, as well as all our products, in addition to being 100% natural, are affordable and desirable. Take a look at our inventory today to see how we can begin improving your overall outlook on life.