Essential oils are not really a new thing – our ancestors had used them for centuries – but right now it’s all the rage these days! Lots of people claim that their general health and mood have remarkably improved by using these essential oils.
Among the many other essential oils I have tried and used, I find sandalwood oil as the “ultimate” essential oil. Why is that so? Find out more about this “wonder oil.”
What is sandalwood oil?
Sandalwood oil is the main product derived from sandalwood, which is a class of wood in the genus of Santalum trees that are characterized by their fragrant wood and slow germination rate. Compared to other naturally-derived fragrances, sandalwood’s aroma lasts longer – it can stay fragrant for years and even for decades.
Santalum album, or Indian sandalwood, is the most prized sandalwood species where most of the commercial oil is derived from.
The pleasant, long-lasting smell, plus the slow growth and maturity of the sandalwood tree, are some of the factors why it is one of the most expensive woods in the world. Unlike other prized woods that are used mainly for lumber, sandalwood is harvested extensively for its aromatic essential oil. Some trees take as long as 80 years until they’re fully matured and ready to be harvested. The older the tree, the stronger and richer the aroma – and of course, the more essential oil it will yield.
Sandalwood oil has many uses that include perfumery, food flavoring, aromatherapy, medicine, cosmetics, and many others. It is also burned as incense or made into a paste or powder for use in Indian, Chinese and Japanese religious rites.
Is sandalwood oil safe for moms and kids?
The great news is that sandalwood oil is one of the essential oils that are considered safe for pregnant and lactating mothers, as well as babies and younger children.
Uses and benefits of sandalwood oil
Here’s how you can use sandalwood oil in the following everyday situations:
1. It can heal skin cuts and burns
Sandalwood oil is an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal essential oil, which makes it excellent in fighting off infections. You can apply sandalwood oil on wounds, bruises, burns, and lacerations.
2. It is a natural insect repellent
Consider using sandalwood oil as a natural repellent against bugs and mosquitoes. Another good reason to use sandalwood oil as an insect repellent is that it has a nice aroma (unlike chemical-based repellents which give off an obnoxious odor which can even harm your lungs). Sandalwood-based insect repellents can come in the form of creams (for topical application) and sticks (for use in a similar manner to regular mosquito coils).
3. It is excellent in healing your baby’s “cradle caps.”
“Cradle cap” refers to the rough, scaly and yellowish skin rash that usually occurs on the scalp of newborn infants. While it does not itch or make the baby feel uncomfortable, it is otherwise an unbecoming sight.
If your baby has a cradle cap, you can make a solution consisting of two tablespoons of almond oil, and one drop of each of the following: lemon juice, geranium, cedarwood oil, and sandalwood oil. Combine all ingredients together and apply a small amount of the mixture on your baby’s head.
4. It is great for skin care
Sandalwood oil is great for a variety of skin problems including dry skin, oily skin, rashes and acne. Or if you’re simply maintaining your already-healthy skin, sandalwood should be included in your skincare kit. It can even help in fighting skin cancer!
5. It is a natural remedy for respiratory disorders
Sandalwood oil acts as an expectorant which helps in expelling phlegm through spitting or coughing. It also alleviates coughing and many other respiratory disorders like bronchitis, chest infections and asthma.
6. It promotes good sleep
Experiencing insomnia? Instead of reaching for a bottle of sleeping pills, go for natural sandalwood oil as your natural sedative. Santanol, the main compound in sandalwood, contains soporific properties that promotes good sleep in a more natural and safer way.
7. It elevates your mood
Sandalwood oil has also been known for long as an excellent anti-depressant. It helps in increasing the levels of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, which promotes calmness and enhances your mood. Buy a sandalwood diffuser and get a good whiff of it! It will make you feel good in no time.
8. It is also great for your hair and scalp
Sandalwood oil also promotes healthy hair and scalp. Usually combined with jojoba oil, sandalwood oil helps in bringing instant sheen and vitality to your dry, dull hair.
Sandalwood oil can be a practical addition to your household. Whether it helps in treating your kid’s wounds or helps in relieving your everyday stress, sandalwood oil will surely be your all-around essential oil!
Please visit Sandalwood Heaven website where you can find more interesting and enlightening information about sandalwood oil, botanical extracts, plus DIY projects that will help you in utilizing this wonder oil and its benefits.