Day 17 is here with Sandalwood! Another great oil for the skin.
Sandalwood essential oil is another great oil for skincare. This is my go-to oil for cold sores. Sandalwood is an expensive oil and has a long shelf life. A little goes a long way with this essential oil. Sandalwood is a base note oil and has a woody scent that blends well with most essential oils. Make sure you pay attention to the Latin name of this oil since there are a few other species. The sandalwood I am discussing today with the Latin name Santalum album doesn’t have any known contraindications, but the one with the Latin name Santalum spicatum does. Santalum album is also known as Indian sandalwood, whereas Santalum spicatum is also known as Australian sandalwood. Both species are from Australia. This is why it is important to pay attention to the Latin name when looking at essential oils.
Essential Oil Common Name: Sandalwood
Latin Name: Santalum album
Family: Santalaceae
Part of Plant Used: Wood
Extraction Method: Steam Distilled
Notes (Scent and Staying Power): Base
Safe for Ages: Safe for all ages, but there are some general guidelines when it comes to children and essential oils. But still, use caution when using topically for children under the age of 2. Sensitivities can still occur. Read here on how to do skin patch testing. If you create a blend for yourself, use a quarter of the amount of essential oil for children as a safe guideline.
Safe for Pregnancy: Yes
Safe for Breastfeeding: Yes
Topical Max: The topical max for sandalwood essential oil is 2%. Going over this topical max may increase the chances of skin sensitization. This means using more than 12 drops in 1 oz of carrier oil. I have used more than 2% of this oil in my cold sore blend without issue. Since everyone’s skin is different, I still want you to be aware of the topical max.
Shelf Life: 8 Years
Key Therapeutic Properties/Actions: Analgesic, Antianxiety, Antifungal, Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Astringent, Antiviral, Sedative
Contraindications: This essential oil has no known contraindications.
Where to purchase: Sandalwood here
Thank you for reading!
Love and Nature,
Nicole
Remember: The contents of this blog post are intended for educational and informational purposes only and may not be the best fit for you and your personal situation. It shall not be construed as medical advice. The information and education provided here is not intended or implied to supplement or replace professional medical treatment, advice, and/or diagnosis. Always check with your own physician or medical professional before trying or implementing any information read here. Click here to read more about my medical/FDA disclaimers.
References:
Tisserand, R., & Young, R. (2014). Essential Oil Safety. (2nd ed.). Churchill Livingstone.
Petersen, D. (2016). Aromatherapy Materia Medica. American College of Healthcare Sciences.
Aromahead Institute. (n.d.). Aromatherapy Certification Program. [Courses]. Aromahead Institute. https://courses.aromahead.com/aromatherapy-certification-program