Wild Crafted Red Sandalwood Chips (Pterocarpus soyauxii)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Red Sandalwood (Pterocarpus santalinus)

Family:

Fabaceae (Leguminosae)

Common Names:

Red Sanders, Rakta Chandana, Saunders Wood

Origin:

Native to India, particularly in the Southern Eastern Ghats mountain range.

Parts Used:

Heartwood

Habitat:

Red sandalwood trees thrive in dry, deciduous forests, typically found in the Eastern Ghats of India. The tree prefers well-drained, sandy soil and grows in USDA zones 10-12, where the climate is warm and dry.

History and Folklore:

Red sandalwood has been highly valued for centuries, particularly in India, for its use in traditional medicine, cosmetics, and religious rituals. In Ayurveda, it is known as "Rakta Chandana" and is used for its cooling properties and its ability to enhance complexion. Historically, red sandalwood has also been used as a dye and in the making of fine furniture and musical instruments.

Metaphysical Properties:

Red sandalwood is associated with grounding, protection, and spiritual awareness. It is often used in rituals and meditation to create a calm, sacred space and to enhance spiritual practices.

Botany:

Red sandalwood is a slow-growing, deciduous tree that can reach heights of 8-11 meters (26-36 feet). It has dark brown bark and a rich, red heartwood, which is the part used for its medicinal and cosmetic properties. The wood is dense and hard, known for its deep red color and fragrant scent.

Growing and Harvesting:

Red sandalwood is primarily cultivated in its native region of India, where it is grown from seeds or cuttings. The heartwood is harvested from mature trees, typically 10-15 years old. Due to its slow growth and high demand, red sandalwood is considered a precious and sometimes endangered species, leading to strict regulations on its harvesting and export.

Constituents:

• Santalin: A red pigment used as a natural dye and in traditional cosmetics.
• Pterocarpol: A compound with antioxidant properties.
• Flavonoids: Provide antioxidant benefits and support overall health.
• Terpenoids: Contribute to its fragrance and potential therapeutic effects.

Energetics:

• Temperature: Cooling
• Taste: Bitter, Astringent

Medicinal Actions:

• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, particularly in the skin and joints.
• Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative damage and supports overall health.
• Astringent: Tightens tissues and helps reduce excessive bleeding.
• Antiseptic: Helps to cleanse wounds and prevent infection.
• Cooling: Soothes skin irritations and reduces heat in the body.

System Affinities:

• Skin: Used to treat various skin conditions, including acne, blemishes, and sunburn.
• Circulatory System: Supports circulation and helps reduce inflammation in the body.
• Digestive System: Used in traditional medicine to support digestion and treat conditions like diarrhea.

Uses:

• Cosmetic: Red sandalwood powder is commonly used in face masks, scrubs, and other skincare products to improve complexion and treat acne.
• Herbal Paste: Applied topically to soothe skin irritations, reduce inflammation, and promote healing.
• Dye: The red pigment is used in textiles, cosmetics, and traditional arts.
• Incense: Burned as incense for its calming and grounding properties in spiritual practices.

Cautions:

• Allergies: Some individuals may experience skin irritation or allergic reactions when using red sandalwood topically. It is recommended to do a patch test before applying it to larger areas of the skin.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is limited information on the safety of red sandalwood during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it’s best to consult a healthcare provider before use.

Scientific Studies:

1. A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology highlighted the antioxidant properties of red sandalwood, supporting its traditional use in protecting the skin from oxidative stress.
2. Research published in Planta Medica demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effects of red sandalwood extract, particularly in treating skin conditions.
3. A study in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science explored the use of red sandalwood in traditional cosmetics, confirming its effectiveness in enhancing skin tone and texture.