The pharmacological action of Santalum Album, also known as sandalwood, revolves around its potent therapeutic properties. This aromatic wood and its oil have been used for centuries in traditional medicine due to its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antispasmodic properties. It’s commonly used to soothe and cool the skin, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing. In addition, Santalum Album tends to have a calming effect that helps to relieve stress and anxiety. Its oil also serves as a driving agent in aromatherapy. Recent research suggests potential anti-cancer properties, although this is still under investigation. All these attributes make Santalum Album a useful substance in pharmacology.
What Is the Composition of Santalum Album Oil?
Other important constituents include epi-β-santalol, α- and β-trans-bergamotol, iso-santalenes, epi-α-bisabolol, and nuciferol [7]. The composition of Santalum album oil can vary depending on the geographic origin of the sandalwood tree, as well as the age and part of the tree used for oil extraction [8]. For example, oil derived from the roots of older trees tends to have a higher concentration of α-santalol compared to oil from younger trees, which contains more β-santalol [9].
The therapeutic properties of Santalum album oil are attributed to it’s high content of santalols and other sesquiterpenes, which have been shown to exhibit antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory activities [10]. These bioactive compounds are thought to interact with cellular membranes and receptors in the body to elicit therapeutic effects [11]. Santalum album oil is also known for it’s distinctive woody, warm, and sweet aroma, which has made it a popular ingredient in perfumes, soaps, and other cosmetic products.
The heartwood is preferred due to it’s higher concentration of santalols, although roots are sometimes used as well [13]. The yield of essential oil from sandalwood is relatively low, around 1-2% by weight, which contributes to it’s high price and limited availability [14].
In addition to it’s aromatic and therapeutic properties, Sandalum album oil has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for it’s anti-inflammatory, sedative, and astringent actions [15]. It’s also been shown to have anti-cancer effects in preclinical studies, suggesting it may have potential for cancer prevention or treatment [16].
Despite it’s many beneficial properties, Santalum album oil is considered a vulnerable species by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), due to overexploitation, habitat loss, and illegal trade [17]. Sustainable sourcing and trade of sandalwood and it’s products is therefore critical for preserving this valuable resource for future generations.
Comparison of the Chemical Composition of Santalum Album Oil to Other Sandalwood Oils
This article explores the similarities and differences in the chemical makeup of Santalum album oil and other sandalwood oils. It aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the differences in the chemical composition, which may affect the aroma, therapeutic benefits, and overall quality of the oils.
Conclusion
Overall, the pharmacological action of Santalum album is a testament to the medicinal properties of natural substances and highlights the importance of exploring traditional remedies for modern healthcare.
