DrFeb
Health Guide

White Sandalwood

White Sandalwood (*Santalum album*) is one of the most revered botanicals in Ayurvedic history, known for its aromatic wood and medicinal properties. While often recognized for its calming scent in aromatherapy, it is a potent dietary supplement used to support skin health, reduce inflammation, and calm the mind. It contains active compounds called santalols, which are scientifically studied for their ability to modulate the body's stress response and protect cells from oxidative damage. Think of it as nature’s chill pill and skin tonic combined.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
White Sandalwood
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Santalol Content in Different Grades

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Santalol %
Sandalwood Type →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Skin Health & Radiance: Traditionally used to cool and soothe the skin, helping to reduce blemishes and irritation.
  • Stress & Anxiety Relief: The aroma and compounds promote a sense of calm, helping to lower cortisol levels naturally.
  • Anti-Inflammatory: Helps soothe internal inflammation, supporting urinary tract health and general comfort.
  • Antioxidant Protection: Fights free radicals that contribute to premature aging.

Deep Dive

White Sandalwood works primarily through its volatile oil content, specifically alpha-santalol and beta-santalol. Unlike harsh chemical sedatives, sandalwood interacts gently with the nervous system to promote relaxation without drowsiness. For the skin, it acts as a natural astringent and antimicrobial agent, helping to tighten pores and maintain a clear complexion. It is particularly beneficial for those dealing with stress-induced skin issues or mental fatigue.

Natural Food Sources

Unlike vitamins found in common fruits and veggies, White Sandalwood is a tree product. The heartwood is the primary source for supplements. However, you can find Sandalwood powder or oil derived from these sources:

Food SourceFormUsage
Sandalwood HeartwoodPowder/ChipsBrewed as a tea or 'kashayam'
Sandalwood OilEssential OilUsed internally (diluted) or topically
Sandalwood PastePasteApplied topically or ingested in small amounts

Supplementation

Dosage:

  • Powder/Capsule: Typically 500mg to 1g twice daily.
  • Oil: 1–2 drops (must be food grade) mixed with honey or water.

Who should take it?

  • Individuals with high stress or anxiety.
  • Those seeking clearer, glowing skin.
  • People looking for natural support for urinary tract health.

Food First Approach: While supplements are convenient, brewing a mild decoction from pure sandalwood chips is the traditional and most bioavailable method.

Top Food Sources

Sandalwood Powder
Direct source of heartwood
Sandalwood Oil
Use food-grade only
Sandalwood Tea
Boiled heartwood chips
Agarwood
Similar aromatic properties
Rosewood
Similar soothing scent profile

Frequently Asked Questions

No. The heartwood is very hard and woody. It must be shaved into powder, boiled into a tea, or taken as a standardized extract/capsule.
Yes. Its calming properties help quiet a racing mind, which can significantly improve sleep onset and quality.
In traditional medicine, yes, but with breaks. It is recommended to cycle the supplement (e.g., 3 months on, 1 month off) to prevent excessive mineral buildup.
Yes. White Sandalwood (*Santalum album*) is used for aroma, skin, and sedation. Red Sandalwood (*Pterocarpus santalinus*) is primarily used as a blood purifier and coloring agent. They are not interchangeable.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety First:

  • Purity Warning: The market is flooded with adulterated sandalwood oil (often mixed with turpentine or synthetic santalol). Always buy from reputable, certified sources.
  • Kidney Health: While traditionally used to support the urinary tract, those with existing severe kidney disease should consult a doctor, as it places a load on the kidneys.
  • Pregnancy: Avoid internal use during pregnancy due to a lack of safety data.
  • Allergies: Rare, but possible skin sensitivity if applied topically without a carrier oil.

Scientific References

  • [1]Santalols (from Sandalwood) decrease locomotor activity and produce hypothermia in mice: A pharmacological study. (Journal of Ethnopharmacology)
  • [2]Antiproliferative and apoptotic effects of alpha-santalol on human skin cancer cells. (Oncology Reports)
  • [3]Effect of sandalwood oil on anxiety and stress in a clinical setting. (Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine)