Do you know why sandalwood has been used since age old times in Indian tradition? Did you know that Sandalwood is anti-parasitic in nature? 

Yes, that is true! Our forefathers and ancestors have been well aware of the fact that sandalwood not only has a pleasant fragrance but it also has anti-microbial properties. It is because of this reason that sandalwood has been traditionally used in making agarbatis and fragrance sticks.

Many deities in Indian tradition are also lovers of sandalwood. We use sandalwood paste to decorate pictures and statues of Hindu deities. This tradition continued at home when people applied sandalwood paste to their face, hands, legs and other parts of skin to soothe skin. Not only does sandalwood have soothing effect, it also heals burns, wounds and injuries. For this reason, yet again, it comes in very handy at home.

Let us now explore the various common uses of sandalwood that you might not have taken note of.

1. Prevents infestation

Sandalwood is a natural disinfectant. The smell of pure sandalwood drives away insects, ticks and mites. Hence it prevents infestation due to these creatures. In today’s world, we have Mosquito Repellent Bands and Mosquito Repellent Patches that people could easily wear to protect them from mosquito bites that could also cause dreadful diseases like Dengue and Malaria and also cause skin irritation and inflammation.  However, in olden days, there was no such concept. People relied on sandalwood sticks, sprays and fumigants to keep insects and microbes at bay. That said sandalwood is quite effective in keeping microbes away. For this reason, it is included in skin lotions or applied directly on the skin to prevent infections.

2. Relaxing fragrance

Another significant reason for our ancestors to use Organic Incense containing sandalwood is the fact that its fragrance is very soothing and relaxing. The sweet fragrance fills houses, temples and all areas with a relaxing mood. For this reason, organic sandalwood is also used in room fresheners, body sprays and deodorants. The traditional value and uniqueness of sandalwood also made it very suitable to carve and create chiselled storage boxes and special cups that are usually part of the prayer room and holy rituals. Not just the oil, sandalwood in itself radiates a beautiful fragrance. This helps to calm and relax the mind.

3. Heals burns and wounds

Sandalwood is an emollient that relieves inflammation and irritation in the skin. It has a cooling effect and helps to relieve fever, side effects of antibiotics and counters insect bites and poisoning. It is also applied to the skin to treat burns and wounds that are part of a usual kitchen accident or when kids are playing.

Sandalwood has antiseptic properties also. Hence, it prevents sores, wounds, boils and pimples from getting infected. If you find yourself getting a pimple or your child has just got hurt, you can apply Sandalwood Essential Oil directly on the skin without thinking twice. It helps to control inflammation, treats pain and also prevents further infection.

4. Revitalizes skin

Applying sandalwood essential oil to your skin helps to constrict pores and prevents sagging due to aging. For this reason, sandalwood is used in many skin ointments and lotions. It can also be used creatively in many face packs and skin care treatments, at home.

Sandalwood softens your skin, opens pores and helps to counter acne problems. Not only this, sandalwood can also help to improve your complexion by improving skin tone. You can use sandalwood at home to prepare your own skin lightening face mask.

5. Works as a child tonic and astringent

Sandalwood is natural, non-toxic and can be consumed in small quantities to treat a number of conditions. Especially, in children, it works as a tonic that soothes the stomach and alleviates Digestion problems and helps nervous and circulatory systems to function in harmony. A few drops of sandalwood essence added to milk and consumed helps to cure intestinal infections, clears sore throats and excretory tracts.

Sandalwood is also an astringent. In other words, it causes muscles to constrict when it comes in contact with them. For this reason, it is also part of dental care products such as tooth paste and mouth washes. It helps to control bleeding of gums and tightens the gums around teeth. It can be applied to the gums naturally after brushing and allowed to stay for five minutes before rinsing. This is very useful for children who eat chocolates a lot more and could also be in for other dental infections and cavity problems.

Did this help you discover why sandalwood is a must for your home?

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