Sandalwood oil

« Back to Glossary Index

– **Main Constituents:**
– Sandalwood oil contains over 90% sesquiterpenic alcohols.
– 50–60% of the oil is α-santalol while 20–25% is β-santalol.
– Composition varies based on species, region, tree age, and extraction process.
– ISO standards for S. album oil are 41–55% α-santalol and 16–24% β-santalol.
– The oil’s constituents are influenced by several factors.

– **Traditional Uses:**
– Sandalwood oil is used in aromatherapy, soaps, and cosmetics.
– It is utilized in Ayurvedic medicine for treating various disorders.
– Studies show physiological effects of inhaling sandalwood oil compounds.
– It holds religious significance in Hinduism, Jainism, Buddhism, and Zoroastrianism.
– The oil has diverse traditional uses.

– **Production:**
– Sandalwood oil is distilled from the entire tree, including stump and roots.
– Australian sandalwood doesn’t require sapwood removal, unlike Indian Sandalwood.
– Distillation processes differ for various sandalwood species.
– Production methods vary for different types of sandalwood.
– Distillation plays a crucial role in obtaining the oil.

– **Fragrance:**
– Sandalwood oil is valued for its woody-floral scent.
– It complements other scents like violet, rose, and clove.
– Synthetic substitutes are being developed due to sandalwood’s rarity.
– Some synthetic alternatives mimic sandalwood’s scent effectively.
– Certain synthetic substitutes have therapeutic potential.

– **Safety:**
– Limited research exists on the safety of sandalwood oil.
– No significant adverse effects documented in scientific literature.
– Some studies highlight potential toxic effects at higher levels.
– Sandalwood oil continues to be used in cosmetics and food.
– Current usage levels in food are considered safe.

« Back to Glossary Index