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Sanderswood - Red Sandalwood |
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Sanderswood - Red Sandalwood
SANDALWOOD RED, SANDERSWOOD
(Pterocarpus santalinus)
History and Folklore
This tropical tree of the pea family is native to Southern India and Sri Lanka. It has long been used as a timber species and incense base. It was considered rare a hundred years ago and has been cultivated since then to ensure continued supply. However, trade restrictions still apply. Despite its name, this tree bears no botanical relation to White Sandalwood - though in the popular mind of India these species are considered brother and sister. Although the tree was known in the Arab world and Middle East since ancient times, very little information is available concerning its uses. It was imported to Egypt for use in construction of temple buildings since it is a durable hardwood of a striking blood red colour. It was also used as incense, though probably more for the visual effect than for its fragrance, which is very subtle. An interesting fact about the red colour of this wood is that it is not readily soluble in water, but only in alcohol. The dye has been used as a colouring agent for food and cosmetics.
Medicinal Uses:
Western herbalism does not use this plant for medicinal purposes. In Ayurveda it is considered cooling, astringent, and tonic. A paste is made as a cooling application for headaches. Externally it is also used for inflammation, toothache and hemicrania. It is said to purify the blood, aid skin conditions and relieve poisonous affections. It is also said to be useful for eye diseases, haemophilic disorders and ulcers. A decoction of the pods has a reputation as an astringent tonic for dysentery. Some recent scientific investigations have found it useful for wound healing.
Magical Uses:
Magically the wood chips are mostly used as an incense base to be blended with various oils or balsams. Macerated in alcohol the dye becomes soluble and can be used as magical ink. The blood red colour of these wood chips suggests an affinity with the juice of life.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child’s range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one’s own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother’s milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don’t risk regret.
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