Bois De
Santal: The Source of Tranquility
By
Nur Syahid
The near
extinct bois de santal has a sensual and exotic scent that gives an
elevating experience for those who use it. The oil extraction process
of the sandalwood is lengthy; the tree has to be about 30 years old
before the process can take place.
Ecology
The tree
grows to 20 to 30 feet high, with many slender branches covered by smooth
greyish-brown bark. The leaves are petiole slender measuring half an
inch in length. The flowers are small, pinky and shortly stalked in
an erect pyramidal terminal.
Aroma Bois
de santal essential oil is a pale yellow, greenish or brownish liquid
with a blend of deep, balsamic, woody fragrance with spicy oriental
undertones.
Health
Notes
With its
expectorant and antispasmodic properties, bois de santal is soothing
for coughs and chest infections caused by bacteria.
Its also
helps to stimulate the immune system.
As an aphrodisiac,
bois de santal produces an ingredient similar to the male hormone androsterone
secreted in the armpits as a sexual signal.
The anti-inflammatory
effect of bois de santal is good for suppressing boils while its antiseptic
properties fight acne. It also relieves itching or discomfort after
shaving.
The relaxing
scent of bois de santal helps soothe tension and anxiety. A point to
note, however, is that it may be more sedative than uplifting.
Bois de
santal oil relieves intestinal spasm and inflammation, and may be useful
in colic and gastritis.
Article
Source: http://EzineArticles.com
