 ncient people used sandalwood
to treat bladder and kidney infections, problems of the respiratory tract and many other illnesses, including use as
compresses for inflammations and skin problems. The fragrance of sandalwood is used as a remedy for headaches and as a
highly effective antibacterial substance when disseminated in living spaces.
The sandalwood tree (Santalum album L.) is native to eastern
India, primarily in the regions around Mysore and Karnatake. It is a semi-parasite
that receives part of its nutrients by withdrawing them from other trees. Because it has green leaves, the tree is capable
of photosynthesis but it needs additional nutritional substances like nitrogen and phosphorus which it sucks out of the
roots of other trees. Host trees include all types of bamboo, palm, teak, guava and clove trees. Sandalwood trees have
elongated evergreen leaves opposite each other on soft branches. Its small flowers have no fragrance.
In Japan, people use a particularly delicate quality that is sold in small square slabs, packed beautifully. They cut small
splinters from these slabs and place them on a mica plate for burning. For Ko-doh ceremonies, people in Japan usually
use agar wood and sandalwood.
The fragrance of sandalwood creates an atmosphere of calm and supports the search for inner peace, reflection and balance.
It is very compatible and works together harmoniously with almost any other fragrance. Warm, soft, gentle and balsamic, sandalwood
caresses the senses. It is a fragrance for lovers, dissolving tensions and stress without making one sleepy.
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