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Sandalwood – scent, properties and use in natural cosmetics

The scent of sandalwood has fascinated people around the world for centuries. Its warm, balsamic , and sensual aroma accompanied religious ceremonies, meditations, and beauty rituals in Asia . To this day, it is considered one of the most luxurious and versatile fragrances in perfumery and natural cosmetics. But sandalwood is not only a unique scent—it is also a valuable raw material with soothing, regenerative, and relaxing properties.

In this post, I'll try to define the scent of sandalwood, explain its properties, and why its scent is used in cosmetics. I'll also let you know which Orientana products contain it and how to incorporate this oriental aroma into your daily skincare and relaxation rituals.

What is sandalwood?

Sandalwood (Santalum album) is a plant native to India and Southeast Asia. A member of the sandalwood family, it has been valued for centuries in both Ayurvedic medicine and spiritual culture. The most valuable parts of the plant are the wood and the root, from which sandalwood oil is distilled.

Even ancient Vedic texts mention its cleansing and relaxing properties. Over time, sandalwood became a symbol of luxury and spirituality —used in temples, palaces, and even in royal rituals. Today, it remains a key ingredient in aromatherapy, perfumery, and cosmetics.

Sandalwood – scent and its characteristics

The scent of sandalwood is described as:

  • warm and balsamic – gives a feeling of comfort and peace,
  • slightly sweet – but not overwhelming, making it universal,
  • sensual and oriental – associated with luxury and spirituality,
  • long-lasting – sandalwood oil is one of the so-called base notes in perfumery that stay on the skin the longest.

This is why the scent of sandalwood is often the basis for natural perfumes and cosmetics that are intended to induce a state of relaxation and harmony.

At Orientana, we've created a Sandalwood fragrance unlike any other, yet so wonderful that it's our top pick , and you keep asking for more products from this line. And we're listening!

Properties of sandalwood oil

Obtaining sandalwood oil

Obtained by steam distillation from the wood and roots of sandalwood (Santalum album and other species), it is a pure, volatile essential oil. It contains primarily sesquiterpene alcohols, such as α-santalol and β-santalol—compounds responsible for its characteristic, deep, woody scent and therapeutic properties.

Effect on the body

Sandalwood oil contains sesquiterpenes and aromatic compounds that have the following effects:

  • anti-inflammatory – helps soothe irritations and redness,
  • antiseptic – gently cleanses and supports the skin’s natural immunity,
  • regenerating – ideal for the care of dry, mature and tired skin,
  • moisturizing – limits the loss of water from the epidermis, improving skin elasticity.

Impact on mind and emotions

The scent of sandalwood plays a key role in aromatherapy. Research suggests that inhaling it can:

  • reduce tension and stress,
  • improve sleep quality,
  • support concentration during meditation,
  • act as a natural aphrodisiac, introducing a mood of relaxation and closeness.

Use in aromatherapy and rituals

Sandalwood has been used in spiritual rituals for centuries. In India, it is still used in the form of incense and oils in temples. In Japan and China, the scent of sandalwood is associated with meditation and purification ceremonies.

In home care and aromatherapy, sandalwood oil can be used in:

  • fragrance diffusers – for relaxation after a hard day,
  • baths – a few drops of oil added to the bathtub soothes and calms,
  • massages – in combination with vegetable oils it has a relaxing effect,
  • scented candles – gives the interior an oriental atmosphere.

Sandalwood Extract

Sandalwood oil and sandalwood extract, although they come from the same raw material, differ in the method of extraction, intensity of action and application.

Obtaining sandalwood extract

It is an extraction (e.g., solvents, maceration, supercritical CO₂ extraction) from sandalwood wood. It is not an essential oil, but a mixture of substances soluble in water, alcohol, or glycerin, depending on the method. It contains some of the compounds present in the wood (e.g., polyphenols, lignans, tannins, small amounts of oils), but it is not as concentrated in santalol as the oil.

Properties of sandalwood extract

  • weaker smell, less intense aroma,
  • has antioxidant, soothing and protective effects on the skin,
  • more often used as an active ingredient in skincare cosmetics (e.g. creams, tonics, serums),
  • It is gentler and safer for sensitive skin than pure oil.

Sandalwood in natural cosmetics

The scent of sandalwood plays not only an aromatherapeutic role but also a skincare one. In natural cosmetics, it is primarily used as:

  • soothing and regenerating ingredient – ​​for sensitive, dry and mature skin,
  • a natural fragrance note – an alternative to synthetic fragrance compositions,
  • an ingredient of SPA rituals – sandalwood oil has a relaxing effect and improves mood.

Thanks to this, sandalwood cosmetics combine skin care with aromatherapy, allowing you to create a home relaxation ritual.

Orientana cosmetics from the Sandalwood series

Orientana , a brand inspired by Asia, has created a line of products that combine skincare with the unique scent of sandalwood. This allows you to enjoy not only natural care but also a sensual aroma that soothes and relaxes.

🌿 Sandalwood and Turmeric Face Cream

  • A unique combination of sandalwood oil and turmeric extract.

  • Turmeric has antioxidant properties and supports the skin in the fight against free radicals and the aging process.

  • Sandalwood oil soothes irritations, regenerates and gives the cosmetic an oriental scent.

  • The cream is perfect for the care of dry, sensitive and mature skin, restoring its balance and radiance.

🌿 Sandalwood and Turmeric Facial Massage Oil

  • Contains a blend of vegetable oils enriched with sandalwood oil.

  • Perfect for relaxing massages – it envelops the skin, deeply moisturizes and elasticizes it.

  • The scent of sandalwood soothes the senses, and turmeric additionally enhances the antioxidant effect.

  • Regular use supports skin regeneration and improves its condition.

🌿 Sandalwood Hair and Body Mist

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🌿 Moisturizing Regenerating Sandalwood Body Balm

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