The warm, sensuous aroma of sandalwood has been prized for over 4000 years. The wood was frequently used to make exquisite carvings, or powdered to make incense.
Over-harvesting of Indian sandalwood in the past 100 years had threatened world stocks of this precious wood, but fortunately there is an abundant supply of the Australian version, with stocks carefully controlled by the Australian government.
The properties of this fragrant wood include a calming, soothing ability, and cleansing properties. It is also used in various skin creams and lotions, with many people finding it to be helpful when applied to chapped, dry or ageing skin.
Herbalists and aromatherapists know it has a wide range or properties, including astringent, antispasmodic, digestive, diuretic, analgesic and antiseptic properties.
It is thus used to treat disorders of the genital and urinary tract, stomach and digestive problems, as well as for fever and sunstroke.
Of course, it also a wonderful, sensuous aroma, and is thus frequently used in high end perfumes - it also works really well in a mix, helping to "fix" other scents.
With sustainable harvesting programs now in place, we can look forward to enjoying this wonderful essential oil long into the future.
