Sandalwood, a cherished and highly sought-after commodity for centuries, boasts aromatic properties and therapeutic benefits that have made it a staple in the world of aromatherapy. Renowned for its grounding and calming scent, sandalwood is the perfect addition to your daily routine, promoting relaxation and alleviating anxiety. We explore simple yet effective ways to incorporate this powerful essential into your life.
History of Sandalwood
Sandalwood is made from the fragrant heartwood of the Sandalwood tree, which is native to Southern India and Southeast Asia. The wood has been used for centuries in traditional medicine and spiritual ceremonies. In Hindu and Buddhist traditions, the paste made from grinding the heartwood of the Sandalwood tree is considered sacred.
Therapeutic Benefits
Apart from its spiritual properties, sandalwood paste is also valued for its therapeutic benefits, most notably:
- Sandalwood has anti-inflammatory properties by altering cell signaling in the body which can reduce inflammation and pain in the body.
- Sandalwood is believed to be antimicrobial and antifungal which supports wound healing by protecting against infections.
- Sandalwood’s active ingredient, Alpha-Santol, is a known beneficial remedy for several ailments including the common cold, urinary tract infections, and digestive problems amongst others.
Mindful Benefits
Sandalwood’s unique characteristics also make it a significant ingredient toward conscious and mindful living. Since sandalwood has a grounding and calming nature, it has long been associated with balancing the third chakra known as the Solar Plexus Chakra. This energy centre governs our ability to be confident and make decisions from a place of inner wisdom. When this energy centre is in harmony, it radiates a sense of empowerment, motivation, and assertiveness. Sandalwood aids in unlocking and channeling these qualities, helping individuals overcome self-doubt and embrace their authentic selves.
In aromatherapy, Sandalwood is considered to help promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. It is often used to promote meditation and mindfulness, as it can help create a sense of inner peace and calm. There are several ways to incorporate the therapeutic and mindful benefits of sandalwood into your daily routine and we explore them further in this article.
Sandalwood Incense
Sandalwood incense has been used for thousands of years in religious and spiritual practices. Generations have used sandalwood to create environments that foster sharper focus and heightened mental clarity. Sandalwood is used widely to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in homes and sacred spaces.
Burning sandalwood incense releases a captivating woodsy, earthy, and rich aroma that helps to reduce anxiety and promote inner peace. Due to the unique molecular structure of sandalwood, alpha-santalol and beta-santalol are principal components with the highest impact on our sense of smell and both are responsibe for sandalwood’s unique fragrance. Alpha-santalol has been shown to inhibit migration and/ or growth of breast cancer cells according to this AntiCancer Research Study.
When purchasing sandalwood incense, it’s important to choose high-quality products that are made from natural ingredients. Synthetic products can cause allergic reactions. Our sandalwood incense is pure sandalwood sourced and free from synthetic fragrances and chemicals.
Sandalwood Essential Oil
Sandalwood essential oil is extracted from the heartwood of the sandalwood tree through a steam distillation process. Essential oils have a very long shelf life and can be easily incorporated into your daily routine in a variety of applications such as perfumes, cosmetics, and natural skincare products. Sandalwood oil is known for skin-soothing properties. The essential oil option is a more concentrated form and allows for more precise and targeted use, ensuring you enjoy the maximum benefits. We recommend using a carrier oil such as Sweet Almond or Argan to blend any essential oil. It is not advised to use an essential oil directly on your skin.
Sandalwood essential oil is also believed to have aphrodisiac properties, making it a popular choice for intimate massages. Researchers have found that women who inhaled sandalwood essential oil and its main compound, alpha-santalol, during sex reported increased mood and higher levels of desire than those who did not. Its sensual scent can help create the perfect intimate ambiance you need for a special evening with your someone special. Sandalwood essential oil is a luxurious way to experience both physical and emotional well-being.
Sandalwood is a must-have addition to your aromatherapy collection. When choosing products made from sandalwood, it’s important to choose high-quality, natural, and sustainable options. By incorporating sandalwood into your daily routine, you can create a more peaceful and balanced life, promoting better mental and physical health.
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