Sandalwood essential oil has many impressive beneficial effects. It contains many healing properties, including antiseptic, antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory. When the oil is used on the body it has the capabilities of eliminating bacteria and relieving pain. The oil can also be used around the house as a general purpose cleaner. It is not the most common oil to use in the kitchen but there are recipes that use the oil or sandalwood powder.
Remember that when using any essential oil, including sandalwood, quality is of the utmost importance. A high quality oil will be distilled from ingredients that were grown without the use of chemical pesticides, harvested correctly and were extracted correctly to preserve oil molecules. The provider of your oil should stand behind their product and should have conducted third-party testing of every batch to ensure quality.
As An Antiseptic
Sandalwood acts as a strong antiseptic. It can either be ingested in small amounts when mixed with water or food or can be topically applied when diluted with a carrier oil. It can help to protect internal wounds and ulcers from developing infections. For external wounds, including sores, boils and even pimples, the oil can stop infections from developing or becoming septic if already present. When using the oil to treat cuts, burns or scrapes, always be sure to dilute the oil. Using it neat could result in more irritation to the area.
Sandalwood is also a strong disinfectant. It is often used in religious ceremonies because of the symbolism behind this property. Its familiar fragrance can help deter small insects, making it a popular choice for incense sticks. The oil can also be added to bath water to disinfect the skin and any wounds. If ingested, the oil can help fight internal infections present in the throat, esophagus, intestines and stomach.
As An Anti-inflammatory Agent
Sandalwood oil has a refreshing cooling effect when topically applied. It can help provide relief from several types of inflammation. It is especially beneficial in cases of nervous and circulatory inflammations that may have been caused by infections, fevers, insect bites or wounds. It also acts as a diuretic and can sooth inflammation in the urinary system. Because it also increases the frequency and quantity of urination, it can flush out dangerous toxins in urine and help to treat urinary tract and kidney infections.
The oil can also help fight spasms throughout the body. If applied topically in troublesome areas, it can relax nerves, muscles and blood vessels. This should end painful spasms and contractions, like cramps, persistent coughs or aches.
As A Medical Healer
Sandalwood oil is mostly known for its cosmetic uses but it also has a long list of properties that are medically related. First, it is considered to be hypotensive. It can be taken with milk or water to reduce hypertension symptoms, including high blood pressure. The oil can also be made into a paste for topical application with similar results. It is also an antiphlogistic and can provide relief from inflammation associated with viral infections and fevers.
Sandalwood oil is also great for stomach issues. It can help with upset stomachs, gas and heartburn. It induces relaxation in the abdominal muscles and the intestines. This will not only help to eliminate current conditions but may also prevent them from happening in the first place. If approved by a doctor, consumption of sandalwood oil may be a natural preventive measure of troublesome stomach conditions.
As A Respiratory Aid
Sandalwood oil is an expectorant and can be used to treat coughs. It also helps to fight viral infections which cause illnesses that can effect breathing, like colds, the flu and mumps. The best way to use the oil to treat a breathing condition is to add it to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam with a towel over your head to trap it. This can be done several times an hour but only for a few minutes at a time.
Sandalwood may be able to help with serious chest infections, like bronchitis. It may also be able to help with the symptoms of asthma. However, because everyone responds differently to essential oils, do not count on sandalwood to stop an asthma attack. Always have prescribed medications nearby if attempting to use sandalwood oil to prevent the onset of asthma symptoms.
As A Natural Cosmetic
Sandalwood oil acts as a cicatrisant, which means that it can soothe the skin and help scars and spots heal at a faster rate. Sandalwood oil can be made into a paste and then used as a skin pack. It may also be able to moisturize the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Sandalwood oil is in high demand by body care product companies not just because of its desirable fragrance but because of its positive effects on the skin. When topically applied as a toner, it can prevent acne and treat current break outs. It can also help with skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and dermatitis. Sandalwood oil is also a natural deodorant and is often used as a natural alternative for controlling body odor. When applied to the hair and scalp, it may be able to eliminate dandruff. The oil also relieves itching and can help rashes clear quickly.
As A Cooking Agent
At one time, sandalwood was a popular flavoring to add to baked goods. The tree is not as readily available as it once was and most newer recipes do not contain the ingredient in any form. However, consider adding either a tiny drop of the oil to a cookie or cake recipe for a new flavor twist.
As An Aromatherapy Staple
Sandalwood oil is popular in aromatherapy because of its ability to calm and sooth. It can help with insomnia symptoms and also relieves general anxiety. It can also help with related symptoms like fear, stress and restlessness. It can boost memory and induce relaxation, concentration and positive thoughts. The oil can be inhaled directly from the bottle or put in a diffuser.