Hey, everyone! Are you glad it's finally fall? I have to be honest. Although my favorite season is definitely summer, I have found quite a bit of fondness for Autumn. I look forward to the pumpkin patch and roasting pumpkin seeds. I love the warm, spiced apple pies that we make from the orchard apples that are freshly picked in the season. Another thing that I absolutely love during this time of year is the aromas of autumn, particularly that of sandalwood.
Sandalwood Where it Comes From
Sandalwood essential oil comes from the trunks of mature sandalwood trees that have reached anywhere from 40 to 80 years of maturity. A more mature tree produces a stronger oil with a richer aroma. Sandalwood essential oil will vary based on the variety of the tree (Australian sandalwood being the most commonly sold commercially), and will also vary in its beneficial properties.
How It's Used
We use commercial Australian sandalwood for our candles, simply because it's not as cost prohibitive for making candles. The more expensive varieties of sandalwood, such as Indian sandalwood, are astronomical in cost and using it in a candle would burn off most of its beneficial properties faster than would be desired (for the cost). I see that as wastefulness and would only reserve an expensive oil like that for the purpose of topical (used in a carrier oil, such as almond oil), or in a warmer (adding a few drops to distilled water).
Another way to use sandalwood is as a mixer. Bergamot or ylang ylang make awesome compliments to sandalwood’s woodsy aroma.
Benefits
Now that I’ve gotten really nerdy, here are a few of the benefits of sandalwood:
- Sleeping aid
- Stimulant for the mind
- Anti-inflammatory
- Astringent
- Pain reliever
- Anti-Microbial
- Beauty benefits
So go ahead and get some sandalwood essential oil, guys! It smells sooo good, and you get all of the benefits that go along with it.
Disclaimer: Never use straight sandalwood essential oils directly on your skin. Also, if you’re completely unsure about what you’re using, do consult a specialist or physician before jumping into essential oil use. Some of that stuff can just be dangerous.
Resources for more info on choosing essential oils: