Growing Sandalwood

A range of aromatic woods derived from trees in the Santalum genus is collectively known as sandalwood. Sandalwood oil is extracted from the fragrant heartwood of these trees. Santalum album, more often known as Indian sandalwood, is the most famous species. The unique aroma and many practical applications of sandalwood have made it a highly prized commodity for generations.
Plants that produce sandalwood typically have the following traits:
- The heartwood of sandalwood trees has a distinct and delightful aroma because it is abundant in essential oils, especially α-santalol and β-santalol.
- Sandalwood oil is steam distilled from sandalwood heartwood, which is a process of great commercial importance. Many traditional medicines, cosmetics, and perfumes contain this oil.
- Sandalwood is highly revered in many faiths and cultures for its spiritual and cultural benefits. As part of some religious rites, it is common practice to apply sandalwood paste to the forehead.
- Development of Heartwood: Sandalwood trees are known for their sluggish growth rate, which can extend over decades. One reason the wood is so expensive is because it grows so slowly.
- Sandy soils are ideal for sandalwood trees, which are endemic to tropical areas. Some of the Pacific islands, as well as countries in Australia, Indonesia, and India, are home to these creatures.
- Some species of sandalwood are in danger of extinction because of the excessive demand for them and the subsequent overharvesting. Because of this, people are trying to get the word out about sustainable farming and harvesting.
- Indian sandalwood (Santalum album) isn't the only species of sandalwood; there are others, such as Santalum spicatum in Australia and Santalum ellipticum in Hawaii, and they all have different characteristics.
Ayurvedic practitioners have long relied on sandalwood for its sedative and anti-inflammatory qualities, among other possible medicinal uses. Still, initiatives to control and encourage ethical sandalwood cultivation have arisen in response to sustainability concerns and problems associated with illicit logging.