Sandalwood, a caress for the skin with medicinal properties

| Sandalwood is an evergreen tree native to India (Santalum album) and considered sacred. Its leaves, large and leathery in appearance, are reminiscent of those of the laurel and can reach heights of 10 meters.

The wood is used from sandalwood and also the root to obtain its active principles, which give it its therapeutic action. Basically it involves the extraction of its essential oil by means of an aqueous or steam distillation of the roots and heartwood of the wood. The result is a pale yellow, greenish or brownish viscous liquid with an intense light, sweet woody and balsamic odor. Contains about 90% of santaloles (alpha and beta santalol, sesquiterpenes ...) responsible for its medicinal properties.

In fact, sandalwood is one of the oldest known perfume elements. It was used in ancient oriental cults to achieve the spiritual harmony and clear the thoughts. In the 5th century BC, the Hindu Vedas of ancient India used it against infections of the apparatus, and it became the base oil of Ayurvedic medicine. In Chinese Medicine it is also used to treat stomach pain, nausea and skin disorders.

At present we can find it in different presentations

commercials such as: pure essential oil, creams or ointments, in cosmetic products, perfumes, soaps and incense sticks for aromatherapy sessions. Above all, it is used for health and good appearance of the skin.

7 Properties of sandalwood

1. Ally of the skin and hair One of the most valued properties of sandalwood oil is the ability to capture free radicals that originate in the body, responsible for the cellular aging. In addition, sandalwood oil has been shown to be able to prolong the growth time of hair follicle cells, thus increasing their life cycle.

2. For skin infections Regular application of this oil on the skin prevents it from becoming infected or deteriorating easily. Apply it on sensitive areas to avoid reactions, such as corners, elbows or areas vulnerable to eczema. In addition, as it is an aseptic oil, use it on small wounds to avoid possible infections or itching.

3. Helps eliminate scars and stretch marks Sandalwood oil is a fantastic ally for reducing skin marks such as scars or stretch marks. It is advisable to apply it every day when you get out of the shower. We just have to anoint our hands with this oil and rub into affected areas. After a few days we should see the improvement.

4. Natural fungicide It is used to eliminate nail fungus, as it easily penetrates the nail and acts from within, thus being much more effective than other artificial chemicals. Furthermore, being antiseptic, avoid possible infections.

5. Emotional regulator Sandalwood oil has the ability to influence our mood. It is stimulating and euphoric, often used for depressive and anxiety states. It seems that its habitual consumption helps to restore the normal serotonin levels.

6. Relaxing Its relaxing properties act gradually but effectively, it is an aromatherapy own remedy with very good results for induce sleep. These relaxing properties, and the fact that it contains hypotensive elements, allows it to act by regulating the appropriate levels of pressure, avoiding hypertension.

7. Natural aphrodisiac In addition to having the ability to relax the body through a body massage, it contains nerve regulators which activate the most sensitive areas of our body, among which are those responsible for perceiving pleasure, lending itself as a natural aphrodisiac. Recommended for treating nervous states, impotence and anxiety. Incense is also commonly used to provide a pleasant scent and create a welcoming and stress-free environment.

Contraindications

exist few cases documented adverse reactions in the use of sandalwood as a treatment. Special care should be taken in the following situations:

• Its use is not recommended for pregnant or lactating women.
• Its use is not recommended when taking anxiolytics.
• Avoid its application in people with ease of generating allergic reactions or dermatitis on the skin by the application of essential oils.

• Sandalwood is used, above all, for the health and good appearance of the skin. It comes in pure essential oil, creams, perfumes, soaps, incense sticks ...
• It is an ally in case of nail fungus, and also when there are scars or stretch marks on the skin, as well as dermatitis, eczema, irritated areas ...
• It is an aromatherapy own remedy with very good results to induce sleep.

Alessandra huerta Naturopath and Nutrition Specialist

INFORMATIVE NOTE

«The contents included in this section offer information related to existing therapies explained by specialists with experience in the field with an informative objective. MAPFRE does not intend under any circumstances to position itself on its suitability or expressly promote its use. "