Sandalwood has been cherished for centuries across cultures, especially in India, for its unique fragrance, healing properties, and spiritual significance. Whether it’s for glowing skin, calming the mind, or performing sacred rituals, sandalwood is a timeless natural remedy.
But how exactly can you use sandalwood in your daily life? Let’s dive into the different forms of sandalwood and how to make the most of its benefits.
What is Sandalwood?
Sandalwood comes from the heartwood of trees in the Santalum genus, especially Santalum album, commonly known as Indian sandalwood. It has a soft, woody aroma and is available in various forms like powder, paste, oil, and sticks (chandan).
In Ayurveda and other traditional practices, sandalwood is considered cooling, anti-inflammatory, and spiritually purifying.
Different Forms of Sandalwood
Before understanding how to use it, let’s look at the common types of sandalwood available:
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Sandalwood Powder (Chandan Powder): Made from grinding the wood, used for skincare and rituals.
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Sandalwood Paste: Freshly made by rubbing a sandalwood stick on a stone with water or rose water.
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Sandalwood Oil: Extracted from the wood, used in aromatherapy and skincare.
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Sandalwood Sticks: Used for rituals and to make fresh paste.
How to Use Sandalwood for Skin Care
1. Face Pack for Glowing Skin
Mix 1 tablespoon of sandalwood powder with rose water or milk to make a smooth paste. Apply to the face and leave for 15–20 minutes before washing off. It helps brighten the complexion, reduce acne, and soothe irritated skin.
2. Anti-Tan and Sunburn Remedy
Sandalwood’s cooling effect makes it great for treating sunburn. Combine sandalwood paste with aloe vera gel and apply to the affected area.
3. Acne and Pimples Treatment
Mix sandalwood powder with a pinch of turmeric and a few drops of lemon juice. Apply on acne spots and leave overnight. It helps reduce inflammation and acne scars.
4. Sandalwood Oil Massage
Dilute sandalwood essential oil with a carrier oil (like coconut or almond oil) and massage into the skin. It hydrates dry skin and leaves a lingering fragrance.
How to Use Sandalwood in Spiritual Practices
1. Tilak Application
Hindus often apply a sandalwood paste tilak on the forehead during puja (worship). It is believed to cool the mind and enhance focus during meditation.
2. During Pooja and Rituals
Sandalwood sticks or powder are used in fire rituals (havan) and applied to idols as an offering. The scent purifies the surroundings and creates a divine atmosphere.
3. Meditation Aid
Adding a few drops of sandalwood oil to a diffuser can help in calming the mind, promoting clarity, and deepening your meditation practice.
How to Use Sandalwood for Hair
Mix sandalwood powder with yogurt or coconut milk and apply it to the scalp. Leave it on for 30 minutes and rinse. It nourishes the scalp and adds shine to dull hair.
You can also add a few drops of sandalwood oil to your regular hair oil for added fragrance and nourishment.
DIY Sandalwood Paste at Home
If you have a sandalwood stick, here’s how to make fresh paste:
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Take a clean stone slab or a rough surface plate (called a sil-batta in India).
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Add a few drops of rose water or plain water on the surface.
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Rub the sandalwood stick in a circular motion to produce a smooth, creamy paste.
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Use it immediately for skin or puja purposes.
This method is traditional and believed to have the most potent results.
Precautions While Using Sandalwood
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Always do a patch test before applying any sandalwood product to your face or body to avoid allergic reactions.
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Use only pure sandalwood or natural products. Many commercial powders may contain fillers or chemicals.
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If using essential oil, always dilute it before applying to the skin.
Final Thoughts
Sandalwood is a beautiful gift of nature that blends beauty, wellness, and spirituality. From glowing skin to peaceful meditation sessions, sandalwood has something for everyone. Whether in the form of powder, paste, or oil, incorporating it into your daily routine can bring calm, clarity, and charm.
So go ahead, open your home to the fragrance of sandalwood—and experience its timeless magic.
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