Australian Sandalwood
Australian Sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) stands as one of nature’s most intriguing botanical treasures. This hemiparasitic tree, native to the arid regions of Western Australia, produces some of the world’s most sought-after aromatic compounds. Its heartwood holds secrets that have captured the attention of perfumers, traditional healers, and scientists alike. While its commercial value is well-documented, the full scope of its therapeutic potential remains largely unexplored.
Essential Takeaways
- Australian Sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) is a hemiparasitic tree native to Australia that grows 3-8 meters tall with gray-green leaves.
- The tree’s heartwood contains valuable essential oils, primarily α-santalol and β-santalol, used in perfumery and aromatherapy.
- Trees must mature for at least 25 years to produce the highest quality heartwood and essential oil concentrations.
- The oil exhibits antimicrobial properties and has traditional uses in Aboriginal medicine for treating skin conditions.
- Australian Sandalwood exports are economically significant, with the wood used for incense, carvings, and essential oil production.
Latin Name
The Latin name for Australian Sandalwood is Santalum spicatum. The species belongs to the genus Santalum within the family Santalaceae.
Santalum spicatum was formally described and named by A.P. de Candolle in 1857. The species epithet “spicatum” derives from Latin, referring to the spike-like arrangement of the flowers.
Description
Australian Sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) grows as a hemiparasitic tree reaching heights of 3-8 meters at maturity. The tree develops a spreading crown and features gray-brown bark that becomes deeply fissured with age. Its leaves measure 4-8 cm long, are narrow and lanceolate, appearing blue-green to gray-green in color.
The tree’s heartwood and roots contain essential oils, primarily α-santalol and β-santalol, which produce the characteristic sandalwood fragrance. The highest oil concentrations occur in the heartwood, with mature trees (25+ years) yielding the most valuable timber. The aromatic compounds have been traditionally used by Aboriginal peoples for ceremonial purposes and remain commercially important in perfumery and aromatherapy.
Benefits
Australian Sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) oil contains the active compounds α-santalol and β-santalol, which are used in perfumery and aromatherapy. The heartwood is utilized in the production of incense and wood carvings. The essential oil has demonstrated antimicrobial properties against specific bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, in laboratory studies.
In traditional Aboriginal medicine, the wood was used externally for skin conditions. The oil is currently employed in the commercial production of cosmetics and fragrances, particularly in Asia and the Middle East. Western Australian sandalwood exports contribute significantly to the state’s economy, with annual harvests regulated by the Forest Products Commission.
Chemistry
Santalum spicatum essential oil contains α-santalol and β-santalol as its primary constituents. Steam distillation of the heartwood yields the essential oil. The key compounds identified include:
| Compound | Percentage |
|---|---|
| α-santalol | 15-25% |
| β-santalol | 5-20% |
The oil requires proper storage conditions to maintain its chemical stability and properties. Additional sesquiterpene compounds are present in the oil’s composition, though their exact percentages vary between samples.
General Safety Info
Specific Safety Guidelines for Australian Sandalwood Oil
Undiluted Australian sandalwood oil (Santalum spicatum) requires dilution to 2-4% in a carrier oil for safe topical use. Direct application of pure oil can cause dermal sensitization.
Required Safety Steps:
- Apply a 24-hour patch test on inner forearm before first use
- Dilute properly with carrier oils like jojoba or sweet almond oil
- Store between 15-25°C (59-77°F) in amber glass containers
- Keep sealed and away from direct light and heat
- Stop application if skin shows signs of irritation: redness, itching, burning
Medical Precautions:
- Not evaluated for use during pregnancy or nursing
- Avoid use on broken skin or mucous membranes
- Keep out of eyes and mouth
- Store securely away from children and pets
Seek professional medical advice before use if you have:
- Known skin sensitivities
- Allergies to botanical products
- Underlying health conditions
- Are pregnant or nursing
Wrap Up
Australian Sandalwood (Santalum spicatum) represents a significant natural resource combining economic value with therapeutic potential. Its essential oils, dominated by santalols, serve both traditional medicine and modern perfumery industries. While commercial demand drives its harvest, sustainable management practices remain essential for species preservation. The tree’s unique hemiparasitic nature and aromatic properties continue to make it a valuable asset in Western Australia’s biodiversity and economy.
