Sandalwood, also called Chandan, is an evergreen tree. It has uses both as cosmetics and therapeutic. Sandalwood has been valued and treasured for many years for its medicinal qualities. Its wood is seductive, cooling and toning. Sandalwood oil contains 90% santalol which is an antiseptic and a stimulant. Sandalwood’s antiseptic qualities make it protective for skincare, vitalizes and freshen the skin. Application of Chandan on the face cures many skin problems and gives a glowing skin. It is used as face packs and face scrub to remove dead cells and stimulate the growth of new cells. Its germicidal property hinders the growth of bacteria.
Sandalwood is used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines as a substitute medicine for the treatment of skin disorders, stomach pains, vomiting. Sandalwood is used in powdered or oil form, which is obtained from bark or branches of sandalwood tree. It has a bitter taste, cooling and sedative properties.
- It can also be used as an astringent for oily skin.
- Sandalwood or Chandan mixed with neem and basil (tulsi) powder is effective in pimples, rashes, blackheads, and acne.
- Chandan mixed with besan (gram flour) and barley flour gives a glowing skin.
- Sandalwood or Chandan mixed with turmeric and honey is an effective face pack.
- Chandan mixed with papaya pulp can be used as a face pack. Apply the pack on the face and neck and leave it for 15-20 minutes. Chandan is an effective antiseptic and germicide and papaya is an effective cleanser. It leaves skin glowing for a long time.
- Chandan or Sandalwood can be mixed with rose water and applied at the area of profuse sweat. Chandan paste applied to the body is effective prickly heat.
- Rakt Chandan or the red form of sandalwood can be used as sunscreen as it protects skin from harmful rays of the sun.
- Sandal or Chandan applied on forehead and temples relieves headaches and lowers down the fever.
- Sandalwood oil is used as a remedy for cystitis (inflammation of the bladder), urinary tract infection and dysuria (painful urination). 5-10 drops of oil mixed with ajwain, ajwain or carom water or juice from grated ginger is useful in diarrhea, heartburn, vomiting, and nausea.
- Two tablespoons of Sandal or Chandan mixed in rice water with honey and sugar is effective for gastric problem.
- It stimulates the growth of WBC to improve the immune system.
- The sandalwood oil can be put into candles or incense and burnt in rooms with patients having mental health problems or stress for a calming effect. It calms the mind and pacifies tension.