3How to Extract Sandalwood Oil and Its Traditional Uses
Like other essential oils, sandalwood oil is typically extracted through steam distillation as it is strongly kept within the wood. This process requires a lot of time, solvents, and energy to complete. Firstly, the wood is converted into a powdered form, which is exposed to super-hot steam to release the oil inside the cellular structure of the wood. The oil is obtained after 14 to 36 hours once the steam is cool. In addition to stream distillation, other forms of distillation can be used, such as:
– Hydro distillation: The powdered wood is put into water, which is boiled to let the oil to float to the surface. It is no longer used these days due to the requirement of so much time, money, and water.
– Solvent extract: Different solvents, such as petroleum ether, methanol, or ethanol, are used to extract the oil.
– CO2 extract
– Phytonics process [3]
Sandalwood has been traditionally used for many applications. It has long been a popular component in the folk medicine in China and India, also known as Ayurvedic medicine. More specifically, it can help treat a variety of conditions, including scabies, hemorrhoids, mental problems, muscle issues, digestive issues, gallbladder and liver issues, urinary tract infections, and the common cold. Sandalwood oil also has a special scent, making it a popular ingredient in aromatherapy and perfumes. [4]
