Botanical Name: Santalum spicatum

Origin: Australia

Cultivation: Certified Organic (USDA, NOP)

Note: Base Note

Aroma Family: Woody

Aroma: Deep, soft, sweet-woody aroma with excellent tenacity and a sweet, smooth dry down.

Process: Steam Distilled Essential Oil

Plant Part: Heartwood

In Europe life retreats out of the cold, and exquisite fireside myths have resulted – Balder, Persephone – but here the retreat is from the sun, and life on the veranda resembles life on the forest tree-tops, and the fragrance of sandalwood and jasmine is ever-present in the air.

A Passage to India, E.M. Forster

The Significance of Sandalwood

Sandalwood: A Sacred Ingredient Across Cultures

Sandalwood stands as a revered ingredient in various religious and cultural traditions worldwide. Its aromatic properties and perceived purifying effects make it a cornerstone in sacred rituals and folk practices.

Hinduism:

In Hinduism, sandalwood holds immense significance. Beyond its dedication to Shiva, it’s associated with Vishnu and Lakshmi, symbolizing purity and prosperity. The Kalpavriksha, a divine wish-fulfilling tree in Hindu mythology, is sometimes depicted as a sandalwood tree, further cementing its sacred status.

Buddhism:

Buddhist traditions cherish sandalwood for its calming fragrance, which enhances alertness during meditation. Tibetan Buddhism uses sandalwood in the mandala offering ritual, representing water and purification, making it a key element in their spiritual practices.

Jainism:

In Jainism, sandalwood powder is used to shower monks and nuns as a sign of respect and purification. This daily practice underscores the ingredient’s perceived ability to physically and spiritually cleanse.

Traditional Chinese Medicine:

Known as “tan xiang,” sandalwood is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to treat various complaints, calm the mind, cool the body, and relieve anxiety. This medicinal use aligns with its spiritual applications in promoting tranquility and focus.

Native Hawaiian Culture:

Native Hawaiians revere sandalwood, or” ‘iliahi,” as a sacred tree used in religious ceremonies and royal lei (garlands). The early 19th-century trade had profound economic and ecological impacts on the islands.

Ayurvedic Medicine:

In Ayurvedic medicine, sandalwood is a cooling herb with anti-inflammatory properties, used to treat skin conditions, fever, and mental disorders. This medicinal use parallels its spiritual significance in Indian religions.

Sufi Tradition:

The Sufi tradition in Islam recognizes sandalwood’s spiritual properties, using it in ceremonies to enhance spiritual awareness and purify the soul.

Ancient Egypt:

In ancient Egyptian mythology, sandalwood played a crucial role in the afterlife, used in mummification to guide the deceased. Egyptians also prized the ingredient in perfumes and cosmetics, considering it a luxury item.

Greek Mythology:

Greek mythology links sandalwood to the nymph Pity. Pursued by Pan, she transformed into a pine tree, and some myths suggest her tears became fragrant resin, hinting at sandalwood’s aromatic properties.

Sandalwood: A Threatened Resource

Sandalwood’s widespread significance across various cultures and religions highlights its unique place in sacred rituals and daily practices. Its aromatic properties, perceived cleansing effects, and divine connections make it a treasured ingredient in spiritual and folk traditions worldwide.

The cultural and religious significance of this ingredient remains strong. The shift towards plantation-grown sandalwood, particularly in Australia, represents a positive step towards taking care of wild populations. Such farms ensure a sustainable supply for future generations. However, continued efforts are needed to combat illegal trade.

We source our essential oil from Eden Botanicals. Eden Botanicals “takes into consideration the ethical practices that are followed during production”.

The growing demand for this ingredient across various cultures and industries has led to significant sustainability concerns and negative impacts from trade. Our blends are crafted mindful of scarcity and value.

• Wikipedia