Santalum album, commonly known as Chandan or Indian sandalwood, is a species belonging to the Santalaceae family. Revered for its aromatic wood and oil, Chandan holds significant cultural and religious importance in various traditions. Native to the Indian subcontinent, particularly in regions with warm climates, Chandan has been utilized for centuries in religious rituals, perfumery, and traditional medicine.
| Botanical Name | Santalum album |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Synonyms | Indian Sandalwood, White Sandalwood |
| Order | Santalales |
| Family | Santalaceae |
| Species | album |
| Habit | Evergreen tree |
| Class | Magnoliopsida (Dicotyledons) |
| Genus | Santalum |
| Range | India, Southeast Asia, Indonesia, Australia, Hawaii, and other Pacific Islands |
Chandan is primarily valued for its aromatic wood and oil rather than its nutritional content. However, it possesses certain bioactive compounds that contribute to its therapeutic properties. The heartwood of Chandan is rich in santalol, which imparts its characteristic fragrance and is highly prized in perfumery. Additionally, Chandan oil is renowned for its soothing and cooling effects on the skin, making it a popular ingredient in skincare products.
Chandan is characterized by its evergreen nature, with aromatic heartwood that ranges in color from pale yellow to dark brown. The tree typically grows to a moderate height, with dark green leaves and small, fragrant flowers. Chandan's distinctive aroma is due to the presence of santalol and other volatile compounds in its heartwood, which intensifies with age. The wood is hard and dense, making it ideal for carving and crafting.
While Chandan is generally safe for topical use, some individuals may experience allergic reactions or skin irritation. It is advisable to perform a patch test before using Chandan products, especially if you have sensitive skin or a history of allergies. Additionally, prolonged or excessive use of Chandan paste or oil may lead to skin dryness or irritation in some individuals.
Chandan finds widespread application in various industries, including perfumery, cosmetics, and traditional medicine. In religious ceremonies and rituals, Chandan paste is applied to the forehead and other parts of the body as a mark of auspiciousness and purity. The fragrant wood is also used to make incense sticks and cones, creating a soothing atmosphere during meditation and prayers. In traditional medicine, Chandan oil is valued for its antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and cooling properties, making it useful for treating skin conditions such as acne, eczema, and sunburn.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before using Chandan products, as safety data is limited. Individuals with sensitive skin or allergies should perform a patch test before using Chandan products to avoid adverse reactions. Chandan oil should be diluted with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin to prevent irritation or sensitization. If you experience any adverse reactions, discontinue use and seek medical advice.
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