Red Sandalwood: Uses, Benefits, Side effects and More

Identifying red sandalwood requires close observation and knowledge of its unique features.

• Growing as tall as 10-15 feet, the tree has a dark brown bark that perforates as it ages.
• Unlike white sandalwood, the bark of lal chandan is not fragrant. 
• Its most distinctive feature remains its heartwood with its deep and striking red or golden core that takes as many as 30 years to develop. 
• When cut, the bark releases a red resin with pink streaks. 
• The leaves of the trees have three small leaflets, whereas its yellow raceme flowers bloom on short stems. 
• The fruits that the red sandalwood bears are are obliquely round, and its reddish-brown seeds are smooth, leathery and about 1 cm long.   

• Red sandalwood is celebrated for its host of health benefits spanning health, skincare and wellness. From its Ayurvedic roots to its modern-day cosmetics, the heartwood and bark of the tree provide therapeutic benefits. Let us dive into some key red sandalwood benefits. 
• Skincare Benefits  
• Fades Pigmentation and Scars: One of the most well-known benefits of rakta chandan is its ability to reduce skin pigmentation, blemishes and scars. It can lighten dark spots owing to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. 
• Individuals can incorporate lal chandan powder for the face by combining it with honey or rose water to create a face mask that has brightening effects on the skin while also reducing stubborn pigmentation.   
•  Anti-Acne Properties: Thanks to its antibacterial and antiseptic properties, rakta chandan is an excellent remedy for treating acne. 
• The application of lal chandan powder for the face lowers excess oil production and unclogs pores to prevent future breakouts. Its cooling effects also soothe inflamed, acne-prone skin, thereby making it a popular natural choice for clear skin.  
• Anti-Ageing Effects: Red sandalwood is rich in antioxidants and safeguards the skin cells from oxidative stress, slowing down the signs of ageing. With regular use of lal chandan powder for the face, the appearance of wrinkles, fine lines, and age spots reduces, promoting a more youthful and firm complexion. 
• The skin elasticity is also improved owing to its collagen-boosting properties, which makes it a key ingredient in anti-ageing treatments. 
• Skin Soothing and Calming: The cooling properties of lal chandan pacify the aggravated pitta dosha, which causes skin inflammation and redness. Red sandalwood uses for face packs can calm sunburns, rashes, and irritation. It also offers relief from itchiness and reduces skin sensitivity. 
• Natural Exfoliant : Rakta chandan is excellent for gentle exfoliation, removing dead skin cells, unclogging pores, and improving the skin’s texture. Red sandalwood uses for face scrub benefits the skin greatly, by creating a smoother, softer, and more radiant texture.
• Hair Care Benefits: 
• Red sandalwood is not only for the skin; its antibacterial properties also enhance scalp health, thereby promoting strong and healthy hair. It nourishes hair follicles, reducing scalp infections. Lal chandan paste can also help strengthen the roots, preventing dandruff, and reducing hair fall.
• Wound Healing and Antiseptic Action : 
• The healing properties of lal chandan are well-known in Ayurveda. By promoting the formation of new skin cells, it promotes faster skin healing. Its antiseptic and antibacterial properties also prevent infection and inflammation of cuts, burns and wounds. Red sandalwood powder can directly be applied on wounds to close them while also reducing the risk of scarring. 
• Blood Purification and Detoxification: 
• Lal chandan is valued for its blood-purifying properties. It supports kidney health and aids with the elimination of toxins from the body by acting as a natural diuretic. This process of blood purification also improves overall wellness and skin health, as toxins are often associated with skin concerns such as acne.  
•  Supports Diabetes Management: 
• It is believed that the bark and the heartwood of the lal chandan tree can aid with the management of blood sugar levels. The benefits of rakta chandan include protecting the pancreatic cells from oxidative damage and supporting the secretion of insulin. 
• The herb has shown promise as a natural way of managing diabetes making it an important addition to herbal remedies for blood sugar regulation.
•  Treats Digestive Issues and Stomach Ulcers : 
• The gastroprotective properties of lal chandan help in managing stomach ulcers. It reduces the production of gastric acid, preventing damage to the stomach lining. 
• It also boasts anti-inflammatory properties that secure gastric cells from oxidative stress. The cooling nature of lal chandan also provides relief from symptoms of indigestion, acidity and heartburn. Those who are concerned with chronic stomach ailments are often advised to consume a concoction prepared with lal chandan.    
•  Relieves Cough and Respiratory Issues : 
• Rakta chandan offers relief from respiratory concerns such as coughs and colds. It does this by balancing the kapha dosha that is responsible for the buildup of mucus in the respiratory tract. 
• Inhaling steam that is infused with red sandalwood oil or applying this paste on your chest can ease breathing, reduce phlegm, and relieve congestion.  
•  Reduces Edema and Swelling: 
• Red sandalwood benefits include helping with the management of edema, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. By encouraging expelling fluids through urination, lal chandan reduces swelling and discomfort. The application of red sandalwood paste directly on the swollen area offers relief. 
•  Liver Health Support : 
• The antioxidants in lal chandan protect the liver from oxidative stress and free radical damage. The flavonoids that are present in rakta chandan boost liver function. Its hepatoprotective effects contribute to better detoxification, which in turn improves skin health and general well-being.
• Enhances Circulation and Nerve Function: 
• Red sandalwood can help cleanse blood and promote optimal oxygen flow to tissues and organs. This improved blood circulation is associated with better cognitive function, reduced fatigue and quicker wound healing. 
•  Relief from Headaches: 
• Use red sandalwood as a paste on the forehead for headaches that are caused by excessive heat or an imbalance of the pitta dosha, for immediate relief.   
• Benefits for Mental Health and Relaxation: 
• The subtle and pleasant aroma of rakta chandan plays a prominent role in aromatherapy. Its relaxing fragrance helps calm the mind, reduces stress, and promotes better sleep. 
• Its ability to balance the pitta dosha has a calming effect that makes it useful for meditation and spiritual practices. This can be extended to physical symptoms such as stress-induced headaches and anxiety.  
   

Red sandalwood has diverse use cases. It can be incorporated in: 

• Traditional Medicine: In Ayurvedic treatments, rakta chandan is used in the treatment of digestive issues and fever owing to its anti-inflammatory and cooling properties.
• Cosmetics: As a key ingredient in face masks, creams and skincare products, lal chandan uses are very common in cosmetics. 
• Aromatherapy: As it boasts a soothing aroma, red sandalwood uses in aromatherapy can promote relaxation and offer stress relief during meditation and wellness practices. So, it is often incorporated in incense, perfumes and essential oils.
• Woodcraft: Famed for its striking red hue and fine grain, red sandalwood is used in furniture, carvings and decorative pieces.
• Construction: Owing to its durability and high appeal, red sandalwood is also used in high-end construction projects.  

Although red sandalwood is widely incorporated in skincare as well as traditional medicine, it could result in certain side effects in certain people. 

• Red sandalwood side effects primarily include skin irritation, allergic reactions and contact dermatitis, particularly for those with sensitive skin. So, before including it in your wellness routine, a patch test must be done. 
• When consumed in large amounts, red sandalwood could lead to gastrointestinal discomfort. 
• Additionally, its safety during pregnancy or in lactating women remains unproven and so, pregnant and breastfeeding women must refrain from using it. 
• There is also limited research on its internal medicinal use, so individuals must first consult their healthcare provider to prevent any adverse reactions or health concerns.     

While the therapeutic benefits of red sandalwood are well-known, for treating skin issues, wounds and allergies, it is important to note that not all natural remedies work for everyone. 

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Disclaimer: This is a general guide on Health Benefits of Red Sandalwood. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. It is advisable to consult a qualified health professional for treatment in severe cases.