Characteristics of Sandalwood
Sandalwood (Santalum album) is a tree of the genus santalum and is native to India, Hawaii, Australia. There are over 100 different species of sandalwood and its growth, depending on the variety, ranges from 3 to 9 meters. It is a very hardy tree, produces purple flowers and will be found even in the poorest, clayey and dry soils. It prefers full sun and is often used to create a hedge landscape
and as a shade tree.
Sandalwood flowers and wood are harvested for the aromatic essential oil between 10 and 30 years old, because the natural essential oils increase during this age period.
Sandalwood growth is favored when it coexists around Acacias, legumes, shrubs or herbs. It is a semi-parasitic tree that sends its roots to neighboring plants or herbs from which it sucks xylene and other nutrients.
The wood of the tree is heavy and retains its aroma many years after it is cut. Its propagation is achieved when male and female trees coexist in close proximity.
The best known varieties of Sandalwood are Santalum album, S. ellipticum, S.yasi, S. spicatum, S.paniculatum.

History of sandalwood
Its nomenclature is related to the light it produces when burning "Chadrah" (shining like the moon), as well as from the Sanskrit "Sandana" meaning "wood for burning incense".
The cultural and spiritual history of sandalwood is lost in the depths of Asia, thousands of years back, when during the Vedic era (1500 BC – 600 BC) the great Ayurvedic authors Charaka and Susruta mention its healing properties and rank it among nature's rare medicines with multiple beneficial properties.

The scent of sandalwood is directly linked to meditation, incense, rituals and offerings to the deities, as they are believed to help fulfill prayers. In many Buddhist monasteries, images and equipment for meditation objects are made of sandalwood. His presence is also mentioned in Egyptian
history where it was used for the embalming of Kings and in mummification.

Today sandalwood is cultivated in Asia for commercial and therapeutic purposes since its oil is used in cosmetology, shampoos, soaps, candles and oral hygiene products. In addition to its deep and inspiring aroma, it is anti-inflammatory, accelerates wound healing, relieves anxiety and improves memory.

Components
Sandalwood essential oil extracted from the inner part of the wood.

Chemical composition of sandalwood essential oil
90% sesquiterpene alcohols of which 50%-60% tricyclic – a – santalol, b- santalol. Lanceol, santalens, bergamotol, e-farnesol.

Instructions for use
- After shave : Mix calendula oil, lavender and sandalwood essential oil. First apply a few drops on the fingers and then apply to the face.
*Contact our pharmacist for the preparation of the mixture.
- In the preparation of scented sticks, candles and soaps.
- Add a few drops of sandalwood to your favorite cream for added fragrance and hydration.
- Mix sandalwood with almond oil and lightly massage the abdominal area to bring balance to the 2nd chakra – Swadisthana.
- Add a few drops of sandalwood to the ceramic burner for peace of mind and deep meditative inspiration.
- Body mist : In 100 ml of rose water, add 6-8 drops of sandalwood and 3-4 drops of frankincense to attract positive energy and leave a warm woody scent in your wake.
- Combines well with essential oil of lavender, ylang ylang, rose, frankincense.

Chinese medicine – Ayurveda
Sandalwood known as Chandana, is highly valued by Ayurveda
Medicine which classifies it as a pitta fire tranquilizer. It is excellent for
the care of irritated skin and is often combined with sesame oil,
cow's milk, licorice and other ingredients to treat inflammation,
as well as for dry, rough skin.
Known in China as Tan Hiang, it activates the spleen meridians,
heart, lungs, stomach. Calms the spirit, moves the Qi energy, hydrates
and invigorates the lungs and womb.

Helpful tips
- The use of essential oils should be avoided during pregnancy, breastfeeding and by children.
- Essential oils should always be used dissolved in an oil base.
- Avoid direct contact with eyes, nose, mouth and exposure to
sun after using them.