Sandalwood's therapeutic uses
Sandalwood, derived from the sweet-smelling sandalwood tree, has long been valued for its therapeutic properties and aromatic qualities. Traditionally used in various cultures, particularly in Ayurvedic medicine, sandalwood is known for supportive treatments related to urinary tract infections, digestive issues, and skin conditions. Its oil is believed to possess multiple health benefits, including stress relief, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties. Preliminary research has indicated potential efficacy in reducing anxiety and aiding in wound healing, while also exploring its possible role in protecting against skin cancer.
Sandalwood is often employed in aromatherapy and has been utilized in meditation practices, reflecting its cultural significance beyond medicinal use. While some formulations have received approval for specific therapeutic applications, safety considerations are paramount, as sandalwood oil can cause allergic reactions and is not recommended for certain populations, including children and pregnant or nursing women. Overall, sandalwood's diverse applications and historical importance make it a subject of ongoing interest in both traditional and modern healing practices.
Sandalwood's therapeutic uses
DEFINITION: Natural plant product used to treat specific health conditions.
PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USE: Supportive treatment of urinary tract infections
OTHER PROPOSED USES: Peptic ulcers, skin conditions, stress relief, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antiviral, cognitive function, wound healing
Overview
The oil of the sweet-smelling sandalwood tree has a long history of use as a perfume and incense fragrance. Sandalwood oil also has a medicinal tradition in various countries, having been used for digestive distress, liver problems, acne and other skin problems, gonorrhea, anxiety, and insomnia. Additionally, it has played a role in some Hindu religious ceremonies and has been used as a meditation aid.
Therapeutic Dosages
According to Germany’s Commission E, sandalwood oil should be taken at a dose of 1 to 1.5 grams daily in enteric-coated form for supportive treatment of urinary tract infections. (Enteric-coated products are designed to not open up and release their contents until they reach the small intestine.) However, this is a relatively high dose of an essential oil and should be used only under the supervision of a physician. Non-enteric-coated products may cause stomach distress. For external use in skin conditions, a few drops of the oil are added to a cup of water.
Therapeutic Uses
For centuries, Sandalwood was used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for ailments including colds, liver and gallbladder disease, hemorrhoids, urinary tract infections, muscle problems, and scabies. It was also an essential part of aromatherapy. Scientific studies on sandalwood slowly emerged in the twenty-first century, and they validate some of sandalwood’s traditional uses. Preliminary studies have shown sandalwood to be effective in reducing anxiety. Studies are also looking into sandalwood’s anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties. Preliminary studies also investigate sandalwood’s potential role in protecting against skin cancer.
Sandalwood oil has been approved by Germany’s Commission E for the treatment of bladder infections. It is not recommended as a sole treatment but rather as an accompaniment to conventional care. However, meaningful evidence that it is effective for this purpose is lacking. Only double-blind, placebo-controlled studies can prove that a treatment really works, and very few studies of this type have been performed with sandalwood.
Weak evidence, far too preliminary to rely upon, hints that sandalwood may have antiviral, anti-Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori is the underlying cause of most stomach ulcers), sedative, and cancer-preventive properties. Many other proposed therapeutic uses for sandalwood exist. It continues to be promoted as helpful in relieving stress and anxiety and promoting restful sleep. Sandalwood may offer skin benefits for conditions such as acne, and its antiseptic properties may promote wound healing. Sandalwood’s anti-inflammatory properties may aid in managing arthritis. Finally, supplementation with sandalwood may offer cognitive benefits by improving focus, attention, and memory.
Safety Issues
Sandalwood oil appears to be relatively safe, but it has not undergone comprehensive safety testing; in general, essential oil can have toxic and even fatal effects when taken in sufficient doses, especially by children. Allergic reactions caused by direct contact with sandalwood oil occur relatively frequently. Sandalwood oil should not be used by young children, pregnant or nursing women, or people with severe liver or kidney disease.
Bibliography
Frosch, P. J., et al. "Further Important Sensitizers in Patients Sensitive to Fragrances." Contact Dermatitis, vol. 47, 2003, pp. 279-287.
Hongratanaworakit, T., et al. "Evaluation of the Effects of East Indian Sandalwood Oil and Alpha-Santalol on Humans After Transdermal Absorption." Planta Medica, vol. 70, 2004, pp. 3-7.
Ochi, T., et al. "Anti-Helicobacter pylori Compounds from Santalum album." Journal of Natural Products, vol. 68, 2005, pp. 819-824.
Patel, Reema, and Nandita Godbole. "Sandalwood and Your Skin: The Healing Benefits of This Sacred Wood." Healthline, 9 June 2021, www.healthline.com/health/beauty-skin-care/sandalwood-benefits-for-skin. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024.
"Benefits of Sandalwood." Quintis Sandalwood, quintis.com.au/q-lab-knowledge-centre/sandalwood/benefits. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024.
Trambert, Renee, et al. "A Randomized Controlled Trial Provides Evidence to Support Aromatherapy to Minimize Anxiety in Women Undergoing Breast Biopsy." Worldviews on Evidence-Based Nursing, vol. 14, no. 5, 2017, pp. 394-402, doi:10.1111/wvn.12229.
Wilson, Debra Rose, and Anna Schaefer. "The Health Potential of Sandalwood." Healthline, 18 Sept. 2024, www.healthline.com/health/what-is-sandalwood. Accessed 18 Sept. 2024.