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Sandalwood is among the most revered and recognizable notes in perfumery, beloved for its rich, creamy, and slightly sweet woody character. Extracted primarily from the heartwood of trees in the Santalum genus, especially Santalum album (Indian sandalwood), it has been used for millennia in religious rituals, traditional medicine, and high-end fragrance formulations. Its luxurious texture and tenacity make it a favorite base note, harmonizing beautifully with florals, spices, and resins.
Sandalwood oil is steam distilled from the heartwood of mature trees, often aged 15 years or more to ensure the depth of scent. Indian sandalwood, once the gold standard, has become endangered, leading to sustainable cultivation in Australia and the use of other species like Santalum spicatum and synthetic analogs. It is known for its milky, smooth aroma that has both woody and slightly lactonic undertones, providing a sensual and grounding experience in perfumes.
Sandalwood evokes feelings of serenity, inner peace, and spiritual elevation. It’s frequently used in meditation and yoga practices due to its calming effect on the mind and body. In perfumery, it adds a tranquil depth that feels warm and reassuring, making it ideal for fragrances intended to soothe or seduce.
Revered in Hindu, Buddhist, and Islamic traditions, sandalwood has been burned as incense in temples, ground into pastes for ceremonial use, and applied to the body as a sacred balm. It features prominently in Ayurvedic medicine for its supposed anti-inflammatory and calming properties. In ancient Egypt, it was used in embalming rituals, while in China and Japan, it was central to spiritual practices.
Sandalwood oil is typically extracted through steam distillation, a gentle process that preserves its nuanced aroma. The highest quality oil comes from mature trees where the heartwood is dense with aromatic compounds. Due to overharvesting, strict regulations now govern the production and trade of true Indian sandalwood oil.
n modern perfumery, sandalwood is a cornerstone base note. Its fixative properties anchor lighter top and heart notes, prolonging a fragrance’s wear. It pairs exquisitely with jasmine, rose, oud, and vanilla, and serves as a versatile bridge in both oriental and woody fragrance families. Sandalwood's plush character enhances the sensuality and longevity of perfumes, making it a timeless ingredient in both niche and mainstream scents.
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