Orientana sandalwood - 2 HITS!

Sandalwood oil (Santalum album) and turmeric (Curcuma longa) are the plant raw materials used in the Orientana Sandalwood and Turmeric series. These ingredients have a centuries-old history of use in traditional healing systems, especially in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine.

In cosmetology, there has been an interest in natural bioactive ingredients for years, which is reflected in the offer of our brand, specializing in cosmetics inspired by Ayurveda and Asian care traditions. Two products from the Balans line - Balans Face Oil and Balans Face Cream, both with sandalwood and turmeric - are an example of a synergistic combination of these two ingredients with proven effectiveness.

Modern research confirms their numerous biological properties, which make them ingredients with high dermatological and cosmetic potential. Both sandalwood oil and turmeric extract have anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant and soothing effects, which makes them effective in the care of sensitive, acne-prone and mature skin.

Sandalwood oil contains active compounds such as α-santalol and β-santalol, which are responsible for its antibacterial and calming effects. Studies have shown that α-santalol can inhibit the proliferation of skin cancer cells and reduce oxidative stress. Additionally, it has comedolytic effects and can help reduce seborrhea, which is important in the treatment of acne vulgaris.

Turmeric, on the other hand, is rich in curcuminoids – primarily curcumin – and has strong anti-inflammatory properties that are comparable to some steroid drugs, but without their side effects. Curcumin also has the ability to inhibit enzymes that degrade collagen and elastin, which may help delay skin aging.

Orientana sandalwood - cosmetics

Balans face oil was developed for combination, oily and problematic skin. It contains sandalwood oil, which regulates sebum secretion, has astringent and soothing effects, as well as turmeric, which reduces inflammation and counteracts discoloration. The presence of natural base oils, such as jojoba oil or grape seed oil, supports the skin's hydrolipid barrier without causing it to become greasy.

The Balance face cream with sandalwood and turmeric is a light moisturizing and regulating product that restores balance to skin prone to oiliness, while also having a soothing and antioxidant effect. Thanks to the content of turmeric extract and sandalwood oil, the cream not only has a beneficial effect on the appearance of the skin, but also supports regeneration processes and reduces the risk of acne lesions.

The use of ingredients such as sandalwood and turmeric in Orientana cosmetics illustrates an approach based on ethnobotanic knowledge and modern scientific research. Their effectiveness is based on multidirectional action, which includes both protective and repair functions, making them a valuable element of care for problematic and sensitive skin.

Orientana Sandalwood - Properties of Sandalwood

Sandalwood oil, mainly obtained from the Santalum album species, is one of the most valuable and expensive essential oils used in cosmetics and aromatherapy. It can also be obtained from the Amyris balsamifera tree. Its unique chemical composition, dominated by sesquiterpenoids such as α-santalol and β-santalol, is responsible for a wide spectrum of biological effects on the skin. Modern cosmetology increasingly reaches for sandalwood oil as an ingredient in products for the care of dry, sensitive, mature and problematic skin.

Moisturizing and regenerating

Sandalwood oil has moisturizing properties, not only through its occlusive action, but also through its ability to strengthen the skin's barrier function. Studies indicate that this oil can stimulate keratinocyte proliferation and improve the integrity of the epidermis. It also helps in healing skin micro-injuries and regenerating the epidermis, making it a suitable ingredient in skin care products for dry and dehydrated skin. Its emollient properties make the skin softer and more elastic, and reduce the feeling of roughness and tightness.

Anti-inflammatory and soothing effect

One of the most valuable features of sandalwood oil is its ability to soothe inflammation and reduce irritation. In vitro studies have shown that α-santalol can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as TNF-α and IL-6, and have an inhibitory effect on cyclooxygenase enzymes (COX-2), responsible for inflammatory reactions. Thanks to this, sandalwood oil is used in the care of skin with eczema, psoriasis, acne or contact allergies. In cosmetic preparations, its effect is noticeable as a reduction of erythema, burning sensation and relief of itching.

Anti-aging effect

Sandalwood oil is also valued for its anti-aging properties. It has antioxidant properties, neutralizing free oxygen radicals that contribute to the degradation of collagen and elastin – proteins responsible for skin elasticity and firmness. In addition, α-santalol can stimulate fibroblasts to synthesize new collagen fibers, which has been confirmed in laboratory studies (Dwivedi & Zhang, 2013). Regular use of cosmetics containing sandalwood oil can help smooth out fine wrinkles, improve skin firmness and its overall appearance and structure.

Thanks to its multi-directional action – moisturizing, regenerating, anti-inflammatory and anti-aging – sandalwood oil is a universal active ingredient in modern care products. In combination with other plant ingredients, such as turmeric, it creates synergistic formulas that effectively meet the needs of sensitive, problematic and mature skin.

Synergy of action - Orientana sandalwood and turmeric

The properties of turmeric make it a unique ingredient in modern cosmetics with anti-aging, regenerative and protective effects. In synergy with sandalwood oil, it creates a comprehensive care formula, which has been used in Orientana brand products.

Properties of turmeric in cosmetics

Turmeric ( Curcuma longa ), known for thousands of years in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, is currently gaining popularity in cosmetology. The main active ingredient of turmeric is curcumin - a polyphenol with strong biological effects, which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti-aging properties. Turmeric used externally has a beneficial effect on the condition of the skin of different ages, supporting its regeneration, improving its color and protecting it from the harmful effects of the environment.

Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects

Curcumin, as a strong antioxidant, effectively neutralizes free oxygen radicals (ROS), which are formed as a result of UV radiation, environmental pollutants and oxidative stress. Studies have shown that curcumin has the ability to increase the activity of antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) or catalase, which results in a reduction of the level of oxidative damage in skin cells (Aggarwal & Harikumar, 2009). Additionally, turmeric alleviates inflammatory processes by inhibiting proinflammatory cytokines (including TNF-α, IL-1β) and inhibiting the activity of NF-κB - a transcription factor involved in the development of inflammation (Hewlings & Kalman, 2017). Thanks to these properties, turmeric is an effective agent in the care of skin with acne, eczema and other inflammatory dermatoses.

Protection against skin damage

Turmeric also has photoprotective properties. Curcumin can reduce DNA damage caused by UVB radiation and reduce sunburn, which has been confirmed in in vivo studies (Kumar et al., 2013). Additionally, it protects skin cells exposed to environmental pollutants, such as particulate matter (PM2.5) or heavy metals, making it an important ingredient in "anti-pollution" preparations. Incorporating turmeric into daily care supports skin defense against external factors, reduces oxidative stress and supports repair processes in epidermal cells.

Improvement of skin tone

One of the valued effects of using turmeric in cosmetics is its ability to brighten the skin and reduce discoloration. Curcumin inhibits the activity of tyrosinase – a key enzyme in the melanogenesis process, which translates into reduced hyperpigmentation and even skin tone (Cheng et al., 2013). It also has anti-inflammatory effects in hair follicles and sebaceous glands, reducing redness and minor acne lesions. Regular use of products containing turmeric helps improve skin brightness, reduce sun discoloration, and achieve a radiant, healthy look.

The Importance of Sandalwood in Ayurveda

In Ayurveda, sandalwood oil (Santalum album) has held a special place for centuries – both in body care and spiritual practices. It is considered a sacred substance, with balancing and soothing effects, and its scent is believed to support meditation, quiet the mind and harmonize energy.

Balancing the Doshas – Sandalwood oil is especially valued for its Pitta-pacifying properties, calming excess fire in the body and mind. It helps with inflammation, excessive sweating, tension and irritability.

Cooling and soothing – In traditional Ayurvedic medicine, it is applied to the skin to soothe irritation, redness and inflammation. It is often used in the form of a paste or oil for sensitive skin, acne or pimples.

Aromatic properties – Its deep, balsamic scent affects the senses – it calms, reduces stress and tension, and improves mood. In Ayurveda, it is believed to support meditation and spiritual development by opening higher energy centers (chakras).

Skin Regeneration and Rejuvenation – Sandalwood oil is also used in Ayurvedic skin care rituals as a natural rejuvenating ingredient. It helps maintain skin elasticity and supports its natural protective barrier.

The Importance of Turmeric in Ayurveda

Turmeric (Curcuma longa), called Haridra in Ayurveda, is one of the most powerful and widely used ingredients in this ancient Indian tradition of health and care. In Ayurveda, its significance extends far beyond the kitchen – it is a plant with versatile effects, a symbol of purification, protection and balance.

A tridosha herb , Turmeric helps balance all three doshas ( Vata, Pitta, Kapha ), making it a universal Ayurvedic ingredient. It is particularly effective on Kapha and Pitta , cleansing the body of toxins ( ama ) and supporting digestion and skin health.

Strong cleansing properties – Turmeric supports the natural detoxification processes of the body and skin. In Ayurveda, it is considered a natural "blood purifier" that helps remove toxins from the body and supports a healthy lymphatic system.

Anti-inflammatory and healing effects – Used as a paste or as an ingredient in oils and masks, turmeric soothes irritations, inflammations, acne and skin redness. In Ayurveda, it is also used for eczema, abrasions and other skin problems.

A symbol of spiritual purification and protection – Turmeric is a plant with deep ritual significance. In India, it is used in purification ceremonies, weddings and rituals, as a symbol of happiness, health and protection from negative energy.

Natural antioxidant – Thanks to the high content of curcumin, turmeric has a strong antioxidant effect, slowing down the aging process and supporting cell regeneration.

The Orientana Sandalwood series appeared in our offer quite a long time ago, which was the result of Anna Wasilewska's visit to India for an Ayurveda course. It was there that the foundations of this series were created, which has been with us for almost 15 years.

Sources:

• Misra, B. B., Dey, S., & Dwivedi, C. (2014). Anti-inflammatory effects of alpha-santalol in in vitro and in vivo models . Inflammopharmacology , 22(4), 227–234.
• Zhao, H., Zheng, T., & He, J. (2019). The protective effects of sandalwood oil on skin barrier function . Journal of Ethnopharmacology , 236, 105–112.
• Dwivedi, C., & Zhang, Y. (2013). The skin cancer chemopreventive agent alpha-santalol inhibits cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis in skin cancer cells . Carcinogenesis , 34(1), 124–133.