Sandalwood (Chandan)

Overview of Sandalwood (Chandan)

Precious fragrant wood prized for centuries in Ayurveda, perfumery, and spiritual practice. It has been a cornerstone of Ayurvedic and traditional medicine for thousands of years, with documented uses across multiple ancient texts including the Charaka Samhita and Sushruta Samhita.

Known botanically as Santalum album, this plant belongs to the Trees category and is native to South India, Southeast Asia. It thrives in tropical/sub-tropical climates and is considered a slow-growing plant.

Traditional Uses

In Ayurveda and traditional medicine, Sandalwood (Chandan) is valued for the following applications:

• Skin care — used in traditional preparations across generations
• Aromatherapy — used in traditional preparations across generations
• Fever — used in traditional preparations across generations
• Anti-inflammatory — used in traditional preparations across generations
• Meditation aid — used in traditional preparations across generations

Health Benefits

1. Skin care

Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight skin care as a key application of Sandalwood (Chandan). The active compounds present in the heartwood, oil, roots are responsible for this effect.

2. Aromatherapy

Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight aromatherapy as a key application of Sandalwood (Chandan). The active compounds present in the heartwood, oil, roots are responsible for this effect.

3. Fever

Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight fever as a key application of Sandalwood (Chandan). The active compounds present in the heartwood, oil, roots are responsible for this effect.

4. Anti-inflammatory

Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight anti-inflammatory as a key application of Sandalwood (Chandan). The active compounds present in the heartwood, oil, roots are responsible for this effect.

5. Meditation aid

Traditional Ayurvedic texts and modern studies both highlight meditation aid as a key application of Sandalwood (Chandan). The active compounds present in the heartwood, oil, roots are responsible for this effect.

How to Use Sandalwood (Chandan)

• Tea / Decoction: Boil fresh or dried heartwood in water for 10–15 minutes. Strain and drink warm.
• Powder (Churna): Dry and grind into a fine powder. Take ½ to 1 teaspoon with honey or warm water.
• Paste / Poultice: Crush fresh heartwood and apply directly to affected areas for external use.
• Oil Infusion: Infuse in coconut or sesame oil for topical applications.

How to Grow Sandalwood (Chandan)

🌱 Soil & Planting

Prefers well-draining, fertile soil with slightly acidic to neutral pH (6.0–7.5). Mix compost into the planting bed for best results.

☀️ Sunlight

Most varieties require full sun (6–8 hours daily). Some may tolerate partial shade.

💧 Watering

Water regularly but avoid waterlogging. Allow topsoil to dry slightly between waterings.

🌿 Care Tips

• Apply organic fertiliser every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
• Prune regularly to encourage bushy growth.
• Watch for pests — treat with neem oil spray if needed.
• Harvest heartwood in the morning for maximum potency.

Precautions & Contraindications

• Pregnancy & lactation: Consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Drug interactions: May interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, or immunosuppressants.
• Allergies: Some individuals may be sensitive. Start with small quantities.
• Children: Use only under professional guidance for children under 12.