Sandalwood

Sandalwood in traditional aromatherapy practices and skincare benefits

One of the most revered gifts of ancient India to the world, Indian sandalwood, known as Chandana in Sanskrit, has held a sacred place in culture, ritual and medicine for thousands of years.

Long before its value was recognised beyond the subcontinent, sandalwood heartwood and oil were central to Hindu ceremonies, meditation and prayer, with the heartwood paste regarded as sacred and deeply symbolic (1).

Traditional uses of sandalwood in skincare

In naturopathic and Ayurvedic traditions, sandalwood is used topically only when diluted with a carrier oil.

The heartwood paste and oil are traditionally regarded as cooling, helping to dissipate heat and soothe skin discomfort.

Active constituents such as alpha-santalol and beta-santalol are associated with calming inflammatory skin conditions including acne, eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis, easing redness and irritation (2).

Sandalwood is also valued for antiseptic and antimicrobial qualities that support blemish-prone skin and minor wounds (3). Plus, its mild astringent nature is traditionally linked to balancing sebum production and refining skin texture.

Rich antioxidant activity has contributed to its longstanding use in protecting skin from environmental stressors associated with premature ageing, fine lines and uneven tone (4).

Traditional use also connects sandalwood with skin renewal and regeneration, supporting the fading of scars and dark marks while encouraging healing (5).

In Ayurveda, its ‘cooling nature’ has made it a customary remedy for sun exposure, rashes and heat-related skin concerns, while also being thought of as a great natural beauty enhancer (6).

Sandalwood in fragrance and aromatherapy

The warm, woody aroma of sandalwood is highly valued in aromatherapy for its effects on mental and emotional wellbeing. It has even been suggested as an agent to lower blood pressure and lowered salivary cortisol in emotionally stressed individuals, based on the results from a study (7).

Therefore, the scent is still widely used to calm the nervous system, easing stress, anxiety and nervous tension.

Sandalwood and ritual

Sandalwood has long been associated with meditation, yoga and prayer, where it is used to enhance focus, mental clarity and a sense of inner stillness.

Its soothing fragrance is also linked to relaxation rituals, helping the mind unwind before rest and supporting improved sleep quality.

Traditionally, the aroma has been described as having the qualities of being both uplifting to the mood while remaining deeply grounding.

Traditional knowledge and modern interest

For centuries, Indian sandalwood oil has been used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for a wide range of internal and topical applications, including support during common colds, digestive discomfort and urinary concerns.

Modern scientific interest continues to rediscover sandalwood’s anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial and anti-proliferative properties, with particular focus on alpha-santalol.

Ongoing research has explored sandalwood’s interaction with inflammatory pathways, skin health and cellular processes, reinforcing its historical use in soothing inflammatory skin disorders and supporting topical comfort.

Research has also shown sandalwood oil to be generally safe and well tolerated, with sensitivity occurring only occasionally.

Safety and guidance

As with all natural remedies, a patch test is recommended before topical use. Pure essential oil should always be diluted with a suitable carrier oil to minimise the risk of irritation.