Sandlewood is one of my favourite essential oils, it has a sweet woody smell and is often used to mix into cosmetics and perfumes.
The highest quality sandalwood is the Indian variety, known as Santalum album. I bought this one from a shop in Glastonbury called ‘Star Child’. It has a number of uses and theraputic benefits including…. + Helps with mental clarity and relaxation. It is often used in prayers and rituals it helps keep one focused and alert whilst at the same time calm. If you have something you are nervous about doing you can take a sniff from the bottle just before an exam, important phonecall to help keep you mentally sharp but relaxed and calm. It can also help with boosting the memory and remembering important things. Due to it’s calming effects it is great for stress management. + Anti ageing. A few drops into face and body creams and lotions can help with anti ageing due to it being high in antioxidants and helping to reduce free radicals. It can also be used as an astringent to help soothe, tighten, and cleanse the skin. +Sandalwood is also an anti-inflammatory agent that may provide relief from mild inflammation. In 2014 a study found that the active ingredient in sandalwood called santalol did help decrease inflammation markers in the body called cytokines. It is believed that santalol acts in a similar manner as NSAID medications but without side affects. Try it on insect bites.
