Sandalwood essential oil can be used to treat many common medical conditions. Keep a bottle of this essential oil in your medicine cabinet as a natural remedy for all types of ailments. One of the most common ways that sandalwood oil can be used is for stomach conditions and infections, both internal and external. Other uses range from a treatment for insomnia to skin and hair health. Always be sure to discuss treatments involving sandalwood oil with your doctor.
Internal Conditions
- Urinary Tract and Kidney Infections
Urinary tract and kidney infections are caused by a build up of bacteria in the body. By ingesting a small amount of sandalwood, the essential oil can help to rid the body of infection. It is also a diuretic and can increase the frequency and amount of urination, speeding up the healing process and flushing out toxins.
- Stomach Issues
Sandalwood can be safely ingested in small amounts. It is usually recommended to be added to a glass of milk, where the oil will be evenly distributed throughout the liquid. Consuming the oil before meals can prevent indigestion, bloating, gas and heartburn. If you are already experiencing these symptoms, you can mix the oil with a carrier oil and rub the solution directly on the abdomen.
- Lymph Node Swelling
Lymph nodes are located all over the body and are a natural way to allow our bodies to fight infection. When they are fighting intense infections they may swell. The skin over them can become red and warm to the touch. While most of the time this doesn’t signify a serious condition, a swollen lymph node can be uncomfortable. If sandalwood is ingested, it can help to get rid of the infection that is causing the lymph node to swell in the first place. Topical application of the oil can help to ease discomfort and minimize inflammation.
- Stimulate Reproductive System
There are some theories that suggest that sandalwood may be able to decrease infertility issues by improving the reproductive system. This is mostly in females but the oil may be able to help males as well. It clears the body of any infections and by increasing blood flow and decreasing inflammation, the entire body, including the reproductive system, can work more efficiently.
- Prevent Muscle Cramps and Spasms
When applied to the skin after being mixed with a carrier oil, sandalwood oil can help to sooth sore muscles and joints. It should be gently massaged into the area. It can also help to relieve pressure on joints where there may be inflammation. The cream should help to alleviate cramps and spasms and regular use may be able to prevent the muscle tightness all together.
External Conditions
- Skin Conditions
Sandalwood oil is a common ingredient in body care products and one of the main reasons for this is because the oil has incredible powers to moisturize and smooth skin. It can help with uncomfortable skin conditions, like psoriasis and eczema, and clear common rashes. It can also help to alleviate any associated pain or itchiness with bites. Sandalwood can also increase collagen production, helping to erase wrinkles and fine lines.
- Hair Health
Sandalwood oil can be applied directly to the scalp when diluted with a carrier oil. It can help to moisturize the scalp and eliminate dandruff. It has also been shown to stop hair loss and help the body to regrow hair. It can also be used as a natural conditioner that will keep hair healthy and shiny while preventing tangles and knots.
- Prevent Acne and Heal Scars
Sandalwood oil can not only help to eliminate acne by eliminating blemish causing bacteria but can reduce redness and inflammation that can be common with break outs. While results may be a little slower than over the counter products, there is no risk of certain side effects that come with the strong chemicals used in these solutions. Also, the oil can have a positive effect on acne scars, both new and old.
Mental Health
- Anxiety
Anxiety disorders are one of the most common mental disorders diagnosed. If you suffer from anxious thoughts, fear of certain situations and find difficulty enjoying the small things in life, sandalwood can be a natural alternative to treat your symptoms. Diffuse the oil or inhale it directly from the bottle if symptoms begin to bring your mind back to ground level.
- Memory Booster
The intense but pleasing smell of sandalwood oil can instantly rejuvenate the mind, helping to decrease sluggishness and improve concentration and memory. Try rubbing a drop of sandalwood oil on your hands and deeply inhaling before a tough work meeting or a test.
- Insomnia
If it’s becoming more difficult to get a good night’s rest, sandalwood oil may be able to help. It can help relax both the mind and body, making it easier to initially fall asleep and stay asleep longer. Diffuse the oil throughout your bedroom or make a spritz with the oil and water to spray on your pillow before retiring for the evening.
- Depression
Sandalwood oil can be applied by the raindrop technique, which is simply placing a drop of oil onto each wrist. This method is recommended when using the oil to treat mild depression, including postpartum depression. Even if you do not consider yourself to be a depressed individual the oil can lift your mood and provide you with a better outlook on your current circumstances.
Sandalwood essential oil can be purchased through health stores or online. It is one of the more expensive essential oils so if you would like to save a bit on your investment, consider making your own sandalwood oil at home. Keep in mind that it won’t be as potent as professionally made oil. If you are purchasing your oil, keep in mind that a less expensive oil may not be a bargain. Make sure that the quality of the oil is backed by the company and that they are taking the necessary steps to produce the best quality oil. Before medicating with sandalwood oil, always consult with a medical professional. Stop use if there are any signs of allergic reaction, rash or irritation.
